The organisers of the 125th Minster Show say they hope the event will be as popular as ever, despite threats to pull the plug last year, writes Karina Barker.

Frustrated organisers considered cancelling the show after bad behaviour from groups of youths led to several complaints.

But a concerted effort throughout the village has restored confidence that this year’s show, on Saturday (July 23) will not be the last.

Among the highlights on this year’s programme are a number of live music acts, including a performance by 16-year-old X Factor hopeful Luke Lucas, and bands Crash Gate 28, The Quirks and the Allen Family.

There will also be sideshows and stalls, Punch and Judy, the Salvation Army band, a display of classic motorbikes, birds of prey, a baby show and a fancy dress competition.

The show will start with a parade up the High Street, to the recreation ground.

The marquee will feature arts and crafts and the flower show, and will be the base for competitions, including cookery, floral art and crafts.

The family friendly sports events will include egg throwing, getting dressed races and a mum and dad’s race.

The marquee was the scene of many of last year’s incidents, with reports of teenagers climbing on the roof in the early hours.

There were also claims of teenagers drinking, and a strimmer donated as a raffle prize was stolen, but later returned. Vice-chairman Karen Brazil said: "There was a time when we thought that a few people would ruin it for the majority but we are planning to be extra vigilant this year and make sure that everything goes smoothly.

"We’ve made it known that we will be on the lookout for bad behaviour and we have asked parents to make sure their children are aware of what is and isn’t acceptable".

"It will take more than a few youngsters acting silly to stop the show.

"Everyone pulls together to make it a success, and we’re sure it will be."

The showground opens at 1pm, with BBC Radio Kent presenter Pat Marsh cutting the ribbon at 2.05.

Entrance is £3, under fives go free.

Tickets for the evening ceilidh are £5, available from Attwells newsagents or at the door.

Raffle tickets will be on sale on the day, with the top prize a pair of season tickets to Margate Football Club.