As well as the regular exhibitors and boatbuilders there will be craftsmen, chandlery and craft stalls, the builda-boat competition organised by Watercraft Magazine , and the ever-popular Try-A-Boat scheme to encourage more people to get out and get boating.

"I am extremely pleased with this development and am looking forward to what promises to be a fantastic show, not only for next year but in all the years to follow, " said show chairman Richard Howard. "We will be working very closely with the Thames Boating Trades Association and the Environment Agency to ensure we maintain the same friendly, relaxed atmosphere of this expanded show."

In addition to Try-A-Boat (included in the entrance fee), there will be river trips on an agency patrol boat, arts and crafts stalls, family entertainment such as the "Italian experience" marquee, canoeing and live music.

The EA is also sponsoring the children's organisation Wild Over Waterways (WOW) to come to the show. WOW will run children's events, in-cluding its popular passport scheme, encouraging kids to learn about and value our rivers and canals.

For more information on display space, email events@bealepark.co.uk or call 0118 984 3369.