Top names in the cheese world will head up a packed stage programme in the cheese and dairy section of the Great Yorkshire Show.

The show has lined up a cast of stellar cheese experts to help bring the subject to life, covering everything from what it takes to judge Britain’s best cheese and dairy entries to perfect pairings: think cheese and chocolate.

Entries are open for the section which was set up in 2002 to help boost the cheese and dairy industry in the aftermath of the foot and mouth disease outbreak.

Businesses can enter via the Great Yorkshire Show website, with entries closing on Monday, May 27, at www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/entry-forms-and-schedules.

The cheese experts will take to the revitalised stage as follows:

  • Tuesday: international cheese judge Nigel Barden, who has more than 30 years of foodie knowledge, experience and tastings under his belt.
  • Wednesday: cheese expert Sam Wilkin, who is the producer of The Cellarman Podcast and The Westcombe Project, as well as producing a series of video shorts going behind the scenes of Fen Farm Dairy.
  • Thursday: The Cheese Explorer Emma Young is a cheese consultant and author from London. Her first book 'The Cheese Wheel' was released just last year.
  • Friday: Homage2Fromage’s Nick Copland will be the host for a day of events, activities and interviews, plus a cheese quiz with some tasty prizes.

Chief steward Caroline Bell said: “We are absolutely delighted to have such a terrific line up of stage hosts who will provide an entertaining and informative programme for the public about the world of cheese and dairy."

The Northern Farmer: Nigel Barden is set to host the Cheese & Dairy Stage on the Tuesday

Thursday sees the renowned Cheese Auction in aid of charity, with this year’s proceeds going to RABI, the charity at the heart of farming, providing expert mental health and wellbeing support, as well as financial, emotional and practical help. Last year’s auction raised more than £5,000 for Herriot Hospice Homecare.

Tickets for the 165th Show, from Tuesday, July 9, to Friday, July 12, are on sale now and will be in advance only, as visitor numbers are capped at 35,000 a day.

Tickets are £35 for adults, £13 for children £13 and £86 for families £86. Go online at www.greatyorkshireshow.co.uk/ticket-information.