FARMERS taking part in one of the region’s biggest events could get a royal encounter tomorrow (Friday).

Hundreds of farmers from Herefordshire and the Marches will be in Malvern this weekend for the Three Counties Show.

The three-day event starts tomorrow morning and includes its usual dazzling array of livestock, stalls and entertainment.

Organisers have confirmed that the Duke of Gloucester will visit on the opening day.

The duke attended the Malvern Spring Gardening Show and is the Three Counties Agricultural Society’s president for 2011.

He will be greeted by the Lord-Lieutenant for Worcestershire, Michael Brinton, before meeting show staff and exhibitors.

He will also present long service awards to agricultural and commercial workers during a whistle-stop tour of the grounds.

The event includes 920 livestock classes with a £60,000 total prize fund, along with rare breeds and a young handlers class.

There is also a shopping village with hundreds of stalls and a regional food and drink hall featuring TV chef David Domoney.

Most of the action takes place in the main area and includes a visit by the Stunt Motorcycle Display Team and the Red Devils.

Visitors should also catch the grand parade and the 25metre European Pole Climbing Championships in the Forestry area.

Tickets are £18 for adults and £6 for children on the gate, but are cheaper in advance.

Contact 01684 584924 for details.