THOUSANDS of farmers are expected to travel to this year's 50th Royal Welsh Agricultural Show.

From July 22 until July 25 at Llanelwedd, Builth Wells more than 240,000 people are expected to attend the show.

Since its formation in 1904, the society has played a role in the development of agriculture and the rural economy in Wales and its popularity grows every year.

The first ever show at Aberystwyth attracted 442 livestock entries but today livestock entries are around 8,000.

Alun Davies, Blaenau Gwent AM and natural resources minister, said his priority is to help build a farming sector strong enough to survive tough times ahead.

Mr Davies said on Tuesday he will set out his proposals for how EU payments under the Common Agricultural Policy should be made in Wales up to 2020.

He said he wants to hear views from the sector and from rural communities on the issue.

This year, breeds of cattle, angora goat, diary goat, horse, pig, lamb carcass and sheep will all be on show for the public to spectate but this is not the event's only purpose.

It also works to promote agriculture, horticulture, forestry and conservation while advancing science, research and education in connection with these industries.

The society aims to promote improvement of livestock and the prevention and eradication of diseases in animals.

To hold demonstrations of modern agricultural methods and processes and to hold shows for the exhibition of livestock, poultry, farm and horticultural produce and forestry and to accommodate demonstrations allied to rural industries.

While the show's principal function is to showcase the cream of Welsh livestock and the high quality food and drink produced in Wales, it exhibits farming and rural life and aims to bridge the gap between town and country.

A 12 hour programme of entertainment is also set for the entire show.

For more information visit: www.rwas.co.uk/royal-welsh-show/