THE premiere event in the Ross-shire farming calendar got underway today (Wednesday) when thousands made their way to the Mannsfield Showground in Muir of Ord for Black Isle Show events.
The main day of the show is tomorrow (Thursday) but the Black Isle Horse Show and preview evening on Wednesday is also a big crowd puller.
Around 30,000 people are expected to turn up over the two days of the event, which has attracted the highest level of entries for at least six years.
Around 600 horses will be judged throughout Wednesday, and there will also be a full range of trade stands, the fun fair, flower show and sheep shearing from 4pm onwards.
The ring entertainment also kicks at 6pm, with the Big Pete Monster Truck Team being the car-crushing star attraction.
The buzz of the big day will begin at 8am on Thursday, when the judging of the impressive stocklines – which this year includes 400 horses, 350 cattle and 1,100 sheep – begins in earnest.
The 300 trade spaces have also been snapped up, with Highland Council hosting one of the biggest stands.
Its stand will focus on health and wellbeing this year, with free blood pressure and a body analysis checks on offer.
The road safety team will be promoting the Pass Plus scheme for new drivers and will be giving drivers young and old a chance to check their reaction times and learn more about safe stopping distances.
Councillor Drew Hendry, leader of The Highland Council, said: "The Black Isle Show is a great event that provides the council with an excellent platform to engage with the public on a wide range of essential services."
Look out for pictures and reports from the show in this week's Ross-shire Journal.
