Ian ClarkeIt's hot - and it's getting hotter!The Royal Norfolk Showground was bathed in beautiful summer sunshine today as the biggest event in the county's agricultural and social calendar got off to a perfect start.Ian Clarke

It's hot - and it's getting hotter!

The Royal Norfolk Showground was bathed in beautiful summer sunshine today as the biggest event in the county's agricultural and social calendar got off to a perfect start.

Up to 100,000 people will be flocking to the site at Costessey on the edge of Norwich, but traffic flowed relatively freely as the early starters arrived.

The animals were being kept cool as temperatures rose and show organisers have urged people to be sensible with a forecast of hot and sunny weather today and tomorrow.

Showgoers have been advised to drink plenty of fluids, wear a hat, cover up with cream and ensure they don't spend too long in the sunshine.

Temperatures around the marquees were set to reach 28C or 29C today - and possibly top 30C tomorrow.

Organisers have promised 'something for everyone' at the show.

The Grand Ring has an action packed timetable and new performers to the show are the Band of the Royal Logistic Corps, who will be supported by the RAF Halton Pipes and Drums.

Scurry Driving is being introduced to the Grand Ring programme for the first time and visitors will be able to enjoy a competition full of thrills and spills as pairs of ponies are driven through a tricky course of cones and hazards while the clock is ticking.

Show regulars the RAF Falcons Freefall Parachute Team will ensure necks are craned skywards and the Bolddog Lings Motocross Team will have the crowd on the edge of their seats when watching their breathtaking stunts.

Show manager Sarah de Chair said: 'The Royal Norfolk Show really does have something to offer everyone.

'Whether your interest lies in watching livestock, seeing exciting grand ring displays, shopping at the wide variety of stands and craft stalls, tasting fabulous food in the Food Hall or just enjoying a wonderful family day out, it is all possible at the Show.'

On Stand 233 (near the grand ring) people can find out all about the Evening News.

Our stand has been given an ambitious makeover this year and there will be a programme of on-stage interviews over the two days.

Adnams head brewer Fergus Fitzgerald, Norwich North MP Chloe Smith and sports writer David Cuffley are just some of the guests.

See tomorrow's Evening News for reports and pictures from today's first day.

Our website www.eveningnews24.co.uk will be regularly updated with traffic information, news from the show, pictures and video.

Special Evening News goody bags will be on sale at the Royal Norfolk Show costing just �2. They will include a copy of the paper, a show guide, voucher for half a pint of real ale, fresh fruit, yoghurt raisins, a packet of fruit, sweets, a bottle of water and a bag of Kettle crisps.

Royal Norfolk Show: Gates open for day two at 8am tomorrow. Tickets bought in advance cost: adults �18, child (five to 16) �6.50. Under five, free. Senior citizens (over 65) �16. Registered disabled �16. Carer, �9. Family ticket (two adults, three children) �48.

On the gate: adult �19, child (five to 16) �7.50. Under five, free. Senior citizens (over 65) �17. Registered disabled �17. Carer, �9. Family ticket (two adults, three children) �53.

Parking: car �5 (not available in advance); motorbikes (no hard standing) �2. Cycles, free.