Jim Warnock, chairman of the RHASS tells all why he is looking forward to this year's Royal Highland Show

The 2024 Royal Highland Show is set to be bigger and better than ever, once again providing the perfect opportunity to celebrate the food and farming industry in Scotland. With ticket sales up 9% on last year, we are on track for a sellout event across all four days.

Each year, we build and grow on the last with an ever-increasing focus on sustainability while ensuring we continue to elevate the visitor experience with a mix of the traditional and unexpected.

We have experienced exceptionally strong livestock entries this year and many classes, including some new classes, have sold out in record time.

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We are thrilled to introduce some new elements to the show including a Kerry Hill sheep section. Additionally in 2024, a Milk and Cream section has been added to the Scottish Dairy Championships, providing more businesses with the opportunity to showcase their products on a world-class stage.

Building on the excitement from last year’s Golden Shears, we’re thrilled to announce the introduction of a new ladies’ sheep shearing class, which has seen some really positive interest from our dedicated shearing community.

And for those who happen to miss any of the action, highlights of the show will be broadcast though a revitalised format of RHS TV for 2024, which will now be produced as a one-hour daily programme featuring key event highlights, interviews, and stories. The programme will broadcast on Freeview channel 278 and will also be available to watch on demand on the Royal Highland Show website.

I’m looking forward to the return of the Royal Highland Hoolie presented with Farmers Bash, which is back with eight live folk and country music acts performing on the Friday and Saturday evenings.

In keeping with the family friendliness of the show, the Hoolie will have a dedicated family friendly area for younger members of the audience which they can head to after a day exploring the RHET Discovery Centre and the Kids Zone located in the Countryside Area.

All in all, following such dreich spring, the show is set to play a hugely important role in the coming together of the community.

It's an opportunity for old friends to catch up, for knowledge to be shared, and for farmers to take a step back from the daily grind and celebrate the finest displays of Scottish livestock, produce, machinery, and technical innovation.

My thanks go out to all our members for their continued support and I look forward to catching up with you all there!