RICHARD Hammond will be making the short journey up the A49 as the new president of this year’s Herefordshire Country Fair.

The diminutive TV presenter who lives at Bollitree Castle near Weston-under- Penyard, has been a fan of the show and attended as a visitor when it was held near Ross-on-Wye.

But this year he will be there helping the organising committee to raise money for charity in the new setting of Hampton Court Castle.

Fair secretary David Probert said it will be a special moment for all involved when they go back to the Hope-under-Dinmore venue on August 1 after a break of 19 years.

“The new owners and their staff have been most welcoming and I am sure that the opportunity to see this historic house and explore the fantastic gardens will be an added bonus for our visitors, not to mention the chance of seeing Richard Hammond,” said Mr Probert.

“The small lake in front of the house was constructed by the Country Fair back in the late ‘80s and its great to see how it has matured.

“This year the lake will be an integral part of the gun dog demonstrations, providing entertaining water retrieves.”

Along with all the usual rural pursuits and entertainment, there will be 150 trade stands and a large food hall.