ANYONE dressing down for the New Forest Show is likely to receive - a dressing down.

Organisers are enforcing the show's dress code in a move that has left spectators feeling hot under the collar, assuming they are wearing one in the first place.

Despite the hot weather people planning to use the members' area have been told to smarten up. Organisers say it is in response to complaints about the dress code slipping.

Security guards at the entrance to the members' lawn and enclosure have been instructed to ensure that spectators are properly attired at all times and refuse admission to those who aren't.

Men are being "encouraged" to wear smart trousers, a jacket and a shirt - either open-necked or with a tie. Show bosses say that smart tailored shorts on hot days are acceptable but swimming trunks, T-shirts, trainers and tracksuits are not.

Women are being asked to wear skirts, dresses and suits or smart casual trousers.

The move has upset some spectators. Tanya Whitbread, 40, of Hythe, said: "This is a country show - not Ascot races. I'm a bank manager who wears suits to work and just wants to enjoy their week off, going to the best show in the land in relaxed attire."