A BBC presenter launched the 2018 Royal Three Counties Show at Worcester Cathedral.

BBC Countryfile presenter Adam Henson, attended the service, along with civic dignitaries and 60 invited guests.

Two Devon cows and two Shropshire sheep, former champions at the Royal Three Counties Show, were rounded up to celebrate the county’s premier agricultural event as Worcestershire adopts the role of Host County.

In celebration of the 60th year of the Royal Three Counties Show being held at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern, the animals were shepherded into the Cathedral.

With a feast of farming, fine food and family entertainment, more than 90,000 visitors are expected next month.

Diana Walton, Head of Shows at the Three Counties, said: “This year is a special one for us with our ‘diamond’ year celebration. It’s also a truly exciting year for Worcestershire as we showcase the very best the county has to offer.

“Our aim is to make rural life more accessible and to invite people to ‘Meet the Countryside’. We want to celebrate our wonderful farming communities, showing off their beauty and sense of community as well as the wide variety of fantastic livestock and equine breeds. We’re looking forward to championing the best of British farming and rural life.”

Mr Henson said: “I’m so proud to be the ambassador for this wonderful celebration of rural life. Having these magnificent creatures inside the stunning cathedral is truly a sight to behold.

"Each year I love to see the passion visitors have for the countryside and the enthusiasm of children meeting beasts of all shapes and sizes with wide eyes of wonder is contagious. I’m sure this 60thyear will certainly be the best yet.”

The entertainment will feature the highly entertaining Shetland Pony Grand National, jaw-dropping Red Devil parachute displays, sheepdog action from international sheep dog handler Dick Roper, a parade of farm machinery through the ages, and the always impressive Grand Parade, featuring each day’s livestock champions.

The Royal Three Counties Show will take place from Friday June 15 until Sunday June 17. Tickets are now on sale. Advanced tickets are from £19 for adults and £5 for children, family tickets are also available.