Get on a hobby-horse is the message at this year's Spring Garden and Leisure Show at the South of England Centre,.

The South of England Agricultural Society has announced a new initiative for the annual show, this year being held on Sunday, May 6, and Bank Holiday Monday, May 7.

Called the A-to-Z of Leisure, the new drive invites showgoers to try something new and will showcase a range of hobbies, interests and leisure activities, from crafts and collections to games and sports.

Show co-ordinator Alan Jenkins said: "For those seeking inspiration we have everything from a display of vintage cars by the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain to the Embroiderers' Guild.

"I am personally excited about the Crawley Mariners Yacht Club, who are bringing a fully-rigged racing dinghy.

"Two of their past pupils have won silver and gold Olympic medals."

Continuing the theme, young people will be able to try out sporting activities with the Youth Active team.

Youth Active is a nationwide campaign which is encouraging young people to become fit through a series of fun and exciting challenges.

Youngsters will also be able to try out their batting prowess with Sussex County Cricket Club, which will be taking along its children's cricket roadshow.

The society will also be welcoming the Sussex Air Ambulance with its new helicopter.

Until recently, Sussex was one of only a handful of counties in the UK which did not have its own dedicated helicopter emergency medical service.

But thanks to strong and generous public support, the new air ambulance is due to be launched in the coming weeks.

On top of new attractions, the show will also feature regular favourites including the llama and alpaca show, which is one of the biggest in Europe, and the open dog show celebrating its 40th anniversary with the introduction of some new classes.

There will be lots of plants and shrubs, garden furniture and ornaments, pools and barbecues on show.

The show will be open both days from 9am to 5pm.

Admission £6, children £3, senior citizens and students £5, and family tickets £15. Website: www.seas.org.uk