The Royal Norfolk Show 2017: Why this special annual event is important to the life of the county and its residents

The Very Reverend Jane Hedges, Dean of Norwich and this year's Royal Norfolk Show President, explains the importance of this special annual event to the life of the county and its residents.

The Royal Norfolk Show, which dates back to 1847, has the reputation of being one of the best county shows in the land and I am confident that this year's show will prove to be no exception. As usual, it is set to entertain, to educate and inspire and to celebrate the diversity of life in this wonderful county of Norfolk.

There will be all the traditional activities to enjoy as you interact with farm animals, wander through the stunning displays of flowers and plants, and sample sumptuous food and drink - much of it produced locally - and engage in some retail therapy at the many stalls and outlets.

There will also be a variety of displays including the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery to entertain you in the main arena and demonstrations of traditional country crafts in other parts of the show ground.

In addition to being entertained, the show gives many opportunities for serious engagement with the continuous advances being made in agricultural research, the production of farming equipment and machinery and the opportunities for innovation and enterprise.

This year there is also a focus on the arts with the inclusion of Showstoppers – a Choir of a Thousand - together with many visual art exhibitions and performing arts displays.

My theme during this presidential year is healthy living – focusing on how we keep our bodies, minds and spirits in good shape through healthy eating and exercise and through interaction with the environment around us and above all with other people.

So please come along to this great celebration of Norfolk life and enjoy the many delights it offers, so much of which contributes to the wider health of the people of this region and far beyond.