Livestock and competition entries for the Royal Highland Show have opened today, with organisers urging competitors to sign up now.
Entries for sections can now be submitted for Scotland's largest agricultural show, including for categories such as beef, dairy, sheep, goats, horses, shearing, fleece and more.
The closing date for cattle, sheep, goats, heavy horse, and light horse entries is 19 April.
Shearing and fleece entries close on 30 April, farriery entries close on 3 May, and all Scottish Championship entries close on 20 May.
Key changes to the 2024 competition programme have also been announced by the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS).
This includes the addition of a Kerry Hill sheep section, a ladies’ shearing class, and the introduction of milk and cream competitions.
The prestigious International Stairway showjumping class previously in the Jubilee Ring will now take place in the main ring, allowing working hunter to start earlier in the Jubilee Ring. Entries will open on 24 April.
An additional sheep ring will be in place to allow more flexibility around the judging timetable, and a new location within the heart of the showground has been assigned to the handcrafts competition.
Show parades will take place on Saturday and Sunday, with cattle and heavy horse exhibitors being encouraged to showcase their stock across both days.
Due to the change in Main Ring timetable on the Friday, the cattle hall will be opened for a longer period allowing increased access for the public.
David Tennant, head of show for RHASS, said: “Each year as the show continues to grow, we look at how we can improve the experience for the farming community, competitors, and visitors.
"With the addition of some exciting new sections and classes in place for 2024, we hope to continue to capture the interest of both the showing community and our regular attendees, as well as welcome new audiences to experience all the show has to offer.
“We wish all entrants taking part the best of luck and look forward to seeing the highest standard of livestock and produce on show.”
The Royal Highland Show will take place at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, Edinburgh, 20 - 23 June 2024.
