THE biggest country show in the South East returns for its 28th year next weekend – and it’s bigger and better than ever.

The event, at Barleylands Farm Park, Billericay, showcases agricultural history and rural crafts, but also features modern attractions and entertainment for all ages.

New on the schedule at this year’s Essex Country Show is Peppa Pig, who will be making appearances throughout the weekend, and the thrill-a-minute excitement of monster trucks in the main arena.

Big Pete, a 7.4-litre V8 Chevrolet weighing in at over 7.5 tonnes, is the star of the show and is ready to crush any car that dares cross its path.

Karen Shutler, driver of the trucks, said: “We are looking forward to bringing our Monster Truck show back to Essex.

“Over the two days, 20 different cars will be crushed by Big Pete and the Grimm Reaper.

“It’s completely adrenaline pumping and we can’t wait!”

A host of classic cars will also on display away from the monster trucks – from vintage military vehicles through to the Thirties Ford Model T and muchloved classics of the Sixties.

A restored and rare Morgan Grand Priz, made during the First World War, will also be on show. Custodian Colin Wilson said: “I am very proud to be showing this delightful car at the Essex Country Show.

“It was purchased in 1959 in a terrible state, but has nowbe loving restored to near perfect factory conditions”

Animals are always a big part of the Country Show and this year is no different, with working horse and dog displays.

The South Eastern Working Newfoundlands will be putting their dogs to the test with practice lake rescues.

Show manager Jenny Sparkes said: “Dog shows and demonstrations are always an extremely popular attraction at the Essex Country Show.

“We are sure the lake rescue will be another big success.”

The classic attractions will be there as usual, with a vintage fairground featuring a carousel, ferris wheel and Punch and Judy shows.

If you get a bit peckish, you can visit the food hall or La Bottega Caffe and Deli, which will sell handmade treats to suit every tastebud.

For more information and to book online visit www.essex countryshow.co.uk

Lowdown on this year's highlights

PEPPA PIG: The children’s favourite will appear at intervals on both days during the show

MONSTER TRUCKS: Twice daily shows of daredevil driving and destruction in the Main Arena

ZORBING: Racing around inside a giant beach, what’s not to love?

STEAM ENGINES: Including the 114-year-old Finem Respice Burrell Engine

WORKING HEAVY HORSES: Meet the gentle giants and see them at work

OLDE ENGLAND SKILLS DEMONSTRATIONS: Boatbuilding, blacksmiths, barrel making and spoon carving

VINTAGE FAIRGROUND: Ride the vintage carousel or take a spin on the 60ft ferris wheel

CLASSIC CARS: More than 300 classic cars, from vintage military vehicles to classics from the Sixties

FOOD HALL: Everything from speciality pies and vintage cheeses to chocolate dipped marshmallow

WEBBED FEET DOGS: Newfoundland working dogs practice a lake rescue

SECOND WORLD WAR PRINTING PRESS: Go back in time and print your message using the historic equipment

TICKET INFO

How much it will cost (On the day/In advance online): Adults: £14/12 Children (3-16): £8/6 Under-3s: Free Senior citizen: £10/8 Family ticket (2+2): £36/30 Parking: Free The show runs from 10am to 5pm on September 13 and 14.