FINGERS crossed the weather holds out, because this year’s Kent Show looks set to be one of the best yet.

Whether this is your first visit or you visit every year, the 2005 three-day extravaganza at the Detling showground, from Friday to Sunday, July 15 to 17, has something for everyone.

The Kent Messenger has produced this comprehensive 16-page guide telling you everything you need to know about this year’s show and on the centre pages you will find a handy map and exhibitor list telling you where everything can be found.

The whole of this year will be important for the renowned agricultural and horticultural Hadlow College, near Tonbridge.

Three years ago the college was practically resigned to the rubbish heap, dogged by a bad reputation and low student numbers. Miraculously, sheer hard work and determination has paid off and this year applications are up by more than 50 per cent this year. Their two stands at the Kent Show promise to be an interactive treat, with a Dingly Dell, misty woodland and hatching chicks.

Food lovers will be in for a treat in the impressive food expo hall. The Kent Pavilion will be this year’s centrepiece, boasting a wide range of tasty foods from Britain, France and America. Visitors will be able to improve their own skills by watching chefs including former Food and Drink presenter Michael Barry.

Don’t be alarmed if you hear the sound of wolves howling as you take a leisurely stroll through the showgground because Murrain Wood, one of the prettiest areas of the show ground, will be home to a family of wolves.

The UK Wolf and Conservation Trust is bringing some of the beautiful animals to the show, which will be kept in a secure enclosure, and is a must for everyone to get the chance to see these alluring creatures.

There’s also big changes in store at this year’s show. There will also be new displays and exhibitors throughout the show, some who are brand new and others who are firm favourites from past years. The biggest change is the extended opening hours on Friday and Saturday. Although trade stands and livestock exhibitions will still close at 6pm, visitors will be able to enjoy entertainment in the Falmouth Ring until 8pm.