APF 2016, the UK’s largest forestry, woodland, trees and timber show, is expected to generate more than £1 million for the local economy when it brings its event to Alcester, according to its organisers.

The event, which is set to take place in the Ragley Estate for the fifth time next month, will host more than 300 exhibitors, with 18,000 visitors expected to attend the show.

An event spokesman said: "Over 2,000 exhibitor staff and thousands of visitors will bring more than £1 million pounds into the local economy during the course of the exhibition in terms of hotel bookings and meals."

The three day event, taking place on September 15 to 17, will see more than 50 climbers racing head-to-head against the clock to scale two giant 25m poles in less than 11 seconds for the Husqvarna World 25m Poleclimbing Championships,which takes place during the show.

Using a crane, two huge six tonne, 100 feet tall Douglas Fire poles will be erected at the site on Saturday, August 20.

APF showcases the very latest machines and technology being used in the industry as well as traditional but still used woodland crafts and horse logging.

The seminar programme features leading figures in the industry speaking on topical issues of the day including plant health, pest and diseases, technology, safety and training, marketing, wood fuel and wood processing. It covers everything that is trees or timber related.

It features a 2,040m demonstration circuit where machines are shown working in a realistic setting with exhibitors on both sides of the circuit that is over 2.5 miles of working machinery.

An estimated £30 million pounds of machinery will be on show.

About 90 per cent of visitors are trade professionals working in the industry.

APF 2016 is a biannual event. This will be the 21st exhibition. The first Exhibition was held at Longleat Estate in 1976.

It has been staged in the Ragley Estate in 2004, 06,12 and 14. The exhibition is the largest such event in the UK and the third largest in Europe.

For more details contact info@apfexhibition.co.uk or visit apfexhibition.co.uk.