WELLIES, wax jackets and walking sticks not the kind of image normally associated with beauty contests.

But this year's county agricultural show aims to put some much-needed glamour back into farming by holding its first-ever Mr Royal Lancs competition.

For several years the county show has been lit up by a Miss Royal Lancs beauty contest, giving young women the chance to shine on the catwalk.

But in a bid to freshen up this year's show, organisers have decided to give young men a share of the limelight.

The brainchild of Katie Cranshaw, 24, a volunteer with Lancashire Young Farmers a 600-member group made up of young people who have an interest in the countryside the event will focus on fun more than good looks.

Katie said: "We usually have a stall at the Royal Lancashire Show and we were talking about things we could do at this year's show.

"Someone said the Miss Royal Lancs event was always a success, so we thought, why not have a similar event for men?

"It's a bit of a fun idea and we don't expect everyone who enters to look like Brad Pitt.

"It's more important that they have a sense of humour and an interesting personality.

"The girls have been doing it for years, so now it's the boys' turn. I don't know if we'll have a swimming trunks round but they will be walking around in nice clothes!

"We'll probably ask them a few questions and they might have to try and be funny.

"It's at a very early stage, but the emphasis is going to be on fun.

"They don't have to be farmers or have anything to do with farming to enter."

Any men betweeen the ages of 16 and 30 can enter.

Lancashire Young Farmers are also appealing for local companies to sponsor the competition.

To take part or sponsor the event, which takes place during this year's show from Friday, July 21 to Sunday, July 23, can contact Katie on 07966 452972.