THIS year's Bolton Show looks set to be the biggest and best ever with hundreds of acts lined up to wow spectators.

Organisers of the two-day festival -- which ranks in the top five free annual events in the UK -- are hoping to beat last year's record of 90,000 visitors.

Since its small beginnings as a horticultural event in the 1970s, the show has grown in size and quality to become a showcase of Bolton life and talent and attracts visitors from as far away as Birmingham, Leeds and Sheffield.

And the event, to be held on Saturday and Sunday, August 21 and 22, promises to have something for everyone.

Steve Bailey, co-organiser of the show, said: "We are hoping this year's show will be one of the biggest and best we have ever held.

"We have a really exciting line up of events and acts and there is something for all the family."

Star billing goes to the Bolddog Lings motorcycle freestyle display team.

The skilled motorbike riders are famed for their exhilarating performances combining the most innovative equipment with their own nerve and talent.

Their act features a freestyle motor-cross competition and demanding mid-air freestyle tricks which they have performed on TV shows as Superman, Hell Clicker, Switch Blade and many more.

Bringing things back down to earth with a touch of elegance will be the Pen-Lyn Musical Dressage Display team featuring four stallions and two white and black Lusitano horses from Portuguese stables.

They have appeared at the Horse of the Year Show. A demonstration sheepdogs at work will be given by John and Alex Whiteley's Border Collies. And Clown Paddywack's Amazing Comedy Car will provide the spills, thrills and laughter to keep the youngsters entertained.

The weekend is split up into themes.

On Saturday, the stage kicks off at midday with the Community Section featuring young up and coming talent and a variety of workshop activities. In the afternoon, the Houghton Weavers will be among the bands performing some traditional favourites.

Sunday starts at noon with some World and Asian sounds featuring local groups and Blue Steel a 12 piece steel band from London.

Visitors will have to hang on to their hats as Savannah, an African White Back Vulture - one of the largest of the species flown free in public displays - takes to the skies.

Savannah is one of the birds taking part in a spectacular and educational twice-daily bird of prey demonstrations by James Long and his collection of hawks, owls and eagles. The full pomp and majesty of an American marching band will be provided by the Ambassadors of Barrowash Carnival Band.

The Craft Tent and Green Tent, two firm favourites of past shows will make a repeat appearance.

And there will also be a huge funfair with speed rides, trades and exhibition stalls and a dog show on Saturday.