The South Coast's biggest celebration of farming and country life begins today.

Thousands of people are expected to flock to the South of England Show, at Ardingly, near Haywards Heath, over the next three days.

With a huge array of attractions, this year's show guarantees a packed day out with thousands of animals on show, hundreds of stalls and a host of attractions.

Farmyard animals will rightly take centre stage with creatures of all shapes and sizes, from cute and cuddly rabbits to shire horses.

Show jumping, carriage driving, daily displays by heavy horses and a polo demonstration on Saturday will all be held.

But it will be pigs that are in the limelight in this, the show's Year of the Pig. To celebrate, a pig village has been set up, complete with a fun piggy pranks obstacle course and a variety of different breeds, including rare long-haired woolly pigs called mangalitzas.

The South of England Agricultural Society's president, the Duke of Norfolk, will be bringing one of his own pigs along to open the show.

As well as the animal classes, arena events include stunt rider Jason Smyth and his Adrenaline Tour Motorcycle Show and a gleaming 8ft robot, called Titan.

More sedate pursuits will also feature in the three-day extravaganza.

The flower marquee, cookery theatre, craft displays and competitions should all prove popular again this year.

The National Vegetable Society will also be on hand with advice on growing techniques.

Deborah Barber, director of the South of England Agricultural Society, said: "Animals are at the heart of the South of England Show and they are what make the event so special - visitors love being able to wander around the showground seeing so many different breeds and varieties, and learning about them from their owners.

"British farmers are continuing to produce top quality animals and the show will be highlighting this as part of the National Year of Food and Farming."

Parking is available and the number 88 bus will operate between Haywards Heath and the showground.

For show information and ticket sales call 01444 892700 or visit www.southofenglandshow.org.uk.

To see our photo gallery of the show, click here.