A LONG-established agricultural society with 18th Century origins is leading the way in the world of livestock showing, thanks to some 21st Century cutting-edge technology.

The Three Counties Agricultural Society (TCAS), based at Malvern's Showground, is celebrating its 50th Three Counties Show this summer by becoming the first showground to offer both an online competition entry service and an internet-based results listing.

Exhibitors are now able to enter cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and horses for the June event, at the touch of a button by logging onto www.threecounties.co.uk.

They will also be able to access a total listing of results, by category, at the end of each show day.

Nick Vincent, TCAS chief executive, said: "The new system means all entries are processed more efficiently and accurately, and exhibitors can view schedules at any time of the day or night.

"The avoidance of paper forms also eliminates the difficulties in interpreting hand writing, and saves on postage costs at the same time."

Last year's Three Counties Show was a great success in spite of a previously turbulent decade. Livestock entries for 2006 were up by nine per cent on 2005, and higher than pre-foot and mouth levels.

The Three Counties Show takes place from Friday, June 15 to Sunday, June 17, from 8am-6pm. Prices start from £13.50 for adults, £11.50 for senior citizens, and £6 for children.