HUNDREDS of animal lovers are expected to flock to one of East Lancashire's oldest events, the 161st Holcombe Old English Gamecock show, next week.

The fowl extravaganza at the Old Dun Horse Hotel, in Bolton Street, Ramsbottom, is the oldest known game show in the country and is held each year on New Year's Day.

The annual show will see clucking roosters taking over the grounds of the hotel on Thursday for the popular event.

The Ye Olde Annual Gamecock Show attracts hundreds of people every year, with many travelling from all over the country and some coming from as far away as Scotland to show off their prize game fowl.

The annual show, organised by Holcombe Old English Game Fowl Club, is noted as one of the most successful shows of its kind.

Russell Taylor, the club secretary, said he is hoping for a packed show this year after they recorded a large turn out at last years' event - with 97 birds shown by 26 breeders who travelled to the event from across the UK.

Mr Taylor added: "It was a very successful show last year. We had more than 200 visiting so we are hoping we can achieve this kind of success again this year.

"We have a variety of first class gamecocks that are entered each year so we hope the standard will be as good if not better this year."

The various classes are expected to be judged by Colin Haworth, of Edenfield, who is chairman of the Holcombe Old English Game Fowl Club.

Organisers are warning that all birds must be vaccinated against fowl pest before turning up on the day.

Entries will be taken up to 11.30am on the day of the show, with it opening to the public at 1pm.

Prizes will be presented at 4pm. Entrance is 50p and membership is £1.