There will be twice as many guinea pigs at this year's Royal Cornwall Show, as the cavy marquee will play host to two prestigious club shows.

In addition to the usual 2-star National Cavy Club (NCC) show classes the section will also host the Western Area Fanciers Cavy Club (WAFCC) and Dutch Cavy Club (DCC).

The WAFCC covers a vast area that runs from Pembrokeshire in West Wales across to Hereforshire and down to Cornwall.

This will be the first time the show has hosted one of the club's six annual stock shows, and sought after rosettes and trophies will be presented to winners.

The DCC was founded more than one hundred years ago and has a long and distinguished history in cavy fancying circles.

Dedicated to the recognisable Dutch guinea pig breed, the club has built-up a passionate membership who are expected to turn out in force at the Royal Cornwall.

Poignantly the South Western Area event is known as the Brian Passmore Memorial Show, in memory of the long-time former DCC Vice President who lived at Trewoon near St Austell.

Wilmot Goldsworthy said: "The Royal Cornwall Show this year is a very good opportunity for exhibitors to gain points in each category with shows taking place on the Thursday and Saturday.

"Last year we had over 150 pigs competing but we expect to attract an extra 100 exhibitors from across the South West and beyond this year.

"The Dutch Cavy Club has a very strong following who are prepared to travel from all over the country to support the club's shows.

"Brian showed his Red Dutch at the Royal Cornwall for many years so it is very fitting that his memorial show is being held here.

"It is an honour that the current DCC president, Alan Trigg, is travelling from Essex to judge."