THE Three Counties Showground has published the bulk of its programme for 2001, saying the venue continues to be a success.

The Three Counties Agricultural Society says lettings income has increased over the last 12 months and has grown by 16 per cent over the last two years.

"Aside from our own three main events, the showground is busy for around 235 days of the year, hosting everything from trade fairs and rallies to horse sales, conferences and the popular antiques fairs and flea markets," said chief executive Chris Milne.

The traditional headline events are there for 2001, the first being the Spring Gardening Show from May 11-13, followed by the Three Counties Show from June 14-16 and the Malvern Autumn Show from September 29-30.

The other big TCAS event is its Championship Dog Show from June 11-14.

New for this year are an Equine Fair from March 10-11, the International BMW Motorcycle Rally from August 17-19 and The Big Motorbike Show from August 18-19.

Missing from the programme this year will be the National Side Saddle Show and The Spanish Horse Show, both moving to new venues.

The venue continues to be a popular location for major dog shows, the first of the year being the Evesham Dog Show on January 6.

The popular Quilts UK Show is being held from May 17-20, the European and American Motor Home Show from June 22-24, Malvern Motorcycle Show from August 18-19 and Vanfest from September 15-16.

The American Extravaganza is returning for a second year, scheduled for August 24-26.

The British Costume Association is switching to Malvern for the first time in May, the private trade event for the fancy dress and costume industry having been held in Stratford-upon-Avon for the last four years.

There is also an extensive programme of horse events, including the WM Stallion Show on April 14, Midland in Hand Show on June 23, Spotted Horse and Pony Show on June 24, Sport Horse Breeding of GB on September 2/3 and the Riding Club Championship on September 8/9.