Preparations are in full swing for Evercreech's annual village show which takes place at the Weston Town Sports Ground next month.

An action-packed programme is once again planned for the village's big day of the year which takes place on Saturday, September 4.

Evercreech residents are proud of their village show, which is one of a few shows still staged in a traditional marquee.

There are 153 fiercely contested classes to enter and a host of outside events.

A programme of outside activities begins at 2pm with the children's (under 10 years) Jungle-themed fancy dress competition.

The Journal's own Billie Bear will be there judging the fancy dress entries.

This will be followed with a display by the Castle Cary Majorettes, fun and capers with Mad Dominic the Clown, and the return of the Evercreech Primary School Country Dancing Team. The arena activities will finish with children's sports.

Daphne Roach, chairman of the Evercreech Show Society, said: "The show committee aims to make this a day for the whole village and invites all village organisations and clubs to take part.

"This year 14 groups are contributing by helping with refreshments, car parking, providing activities and sideshows including an under-5s activity corner."

The show marquee will open at 2.30pm when results from all the entries and cup winners will be displayed. Entries in the hanging basket class have already been judged by Chris Bath, head gardener at Kilver Court in Shepton Mallet, though results will not be announced until the opening of the show.

Throughout the afternoon teas, cakes and ice creams will be on sale as well as a barbecue and bar plus a variety of stalls, side shows and a raffle. Cups and prizes will be presented by the president, Val Bath, at 4.30pm.

Mrs Roach said: "We are looking forward to a sunny, fun and successful day."

Entry is £1.50 for adults, including a programme, and children are free. Schedules for the show are available from the Evercreech Pharmacy, Melita's hairdressers and committee members.

Entries will be taken at Prospect House, Prestleigh Road, on August 31, from 10am to noon and from 6pm to 8pm; on September 1, from 10am to noon, 3pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm; and on September 2, from 10am to noon.