THE Three Counties Agricultural Society's (TCAS) box office has reported a surge of interest in its Leisuretime Show, which is taking place for the first time ever next month.

The society has taken more bookings and organised more events than ever before this year, as it attempts to recover from cancellations in 2001 caused by foot and mouth.

Its latest show is devoted to the ways we spend our free time, with a programme which features sport and leisure, home and DIY, holidays and travel, food, health and beauty, the arts and shopping. Other attractions at the two-day event, which starts on August 10, include an all-weather ice rink, the Midshires' Strongest Man competition and the world's largest show team of in-line skaters, skateboarders and BMX riders, Team Extreme.

"This is a fun weekend aimed at every generation of the family," said TCAS press officer Sharon Gilbert. "We anticipate an excellent turnout."

For more information and advance tickets, which are only available until July 26, ring 01684 584924.