MALVERN MP Harriett Baldwin today praised event organisers at the opening of the UK’s premier county show.

The Three Counties Agricultural Show has become the most popular rural show in the country as 100,000 visitors travel to the Malvern venue each year.

The MP welcomed the huge progress the show has made at a time when rural affairs are firmly on the national agenda.

She said: “The Three Counties Show has gone from strength to strength over recent years and even in challenging weather conditions, people still travel from all over the country to visit Worcestershire.

“To my mind, it has become the premier county show. There is so much that we can be proud of on display here.

“Our livestock continues to impress and this is a great chance to wave the flag for our rural economy.

“At a time when issues such as GM crops, TB and food security are regularly featured in the news, I am pleased to see so many people turning out to support and celebrate our vital agricultural economy.”

The MP toured the show and discussed challenges facing the farming community.

She also met with local business groups and enjoyed world-renowned cake in Women’s Institute marquee.

She added: “A trip to the Three Counties Show really is a day out for the whole family and I am delighted to be able to wander round and see so many smiling faces.”