STAFF at the Border Union Agricultural Society are gearing up for one of their busiest days of the year.

More than 1200 children from 60 different schools will take part in the Society's Countryside Day next month.

The annual event, which will be held on Tuesday, May 17, is open to all primary five pupils in the Scottish Borders.

Around 50 different exhibitions and demonstrations are planned for the day that promotes everything rural, agricultural and environmental.

The Countryside Day is one of the most important legacies of the Bicentenary celebrations in 2013.

And the popular pro-countryside event wouldn't happen without the valuable support from the Fallago Environment Fund, which is administered by EDF Energy Renewables and the Roxburghe Estates.

His Grace the Duke of Roxburghe told us: "This is exactly the type of project that EDF and Roxburghe Estates, through the Fallgo Environment Fund, are delighted to be part of - about the land and the countryside of the Borders for these young people, who will be custodians of the land.

"Things that they see and learn this day will remain with them throughout their lives."

The children will learn where their food comes from and how it is produced.

They will also witness all aspects of development and the history of the land.

The importance of trees and rivers will be highlighted and there will be live sheep-shearing, live animal displays and talks on the countryside code.

All types of farm machinery will be available for the children and their teachers to try.

Andrew Douglas Home, chairman of the Fallago Environment Fund, added: "The feat of organising 50 exhibits and stands, let along over 1200 children, really is a remarkable achievement and the Border Union Agricultural Show is to be congratulated for the huge efforts it makes on this front.

"We are delighted to support such a venture."