HAMPSHIRE’S biggest summer spectacular begins today – and the eagerly-awaited event could turn out to be a record-breaker.

Organisers of the New Forest and Hampshire County Show say the crowd figure might smash the existing record set in 2011, when more than 100,000 spectators poured through the gates.

Last night show bosses were in jubilant mood as they put the finishing touches to the huge showground at New Park, Brockenhurst.

They cited record online advance ticket sales and the presence of the Household Cavalry, which will be staging its world-famous musical ride on all three days.

Show secretary Denis Dooley said: “We had a bit of rain on Friday and Sunday but the ground lapped it up. The forecast is absolutely perfect – not too hot, not too cold and no rain."

Asked if he thought this year’s attendance could smash the previous record he added: “It’s a possibility.

“Advance online ticket sales are up 40 per cent, the forecast is dry and the Household Cavalry are absolutely amazing.”

The soldiers and their mounts arrived yesterday and staged a rehearsal in the main ring a few hours later.

Mr Dooley confirmed that the livestock section of the Daily Echo-backed show had attracted record entries, including 1,000 sheep.