The three-day New Forest Show has received a major accolade that recognises its contribution to the area.

The Daily Echo-backed event has been highly commended in the tourism event category of the 2014 Beautiful South Tourism Awards.

The show is said to be worth at least £12m to the local economy.

First held at Bartley in 1921, it has grown into a major event that attracts more than 90,000 spectators a year.

The Queen marked the end of her diamond jubilee tour by visiting in 2012. Princess Anne has also been a visitor to the showground at New Park, Brockenhurst. The Count and Countess of Wessex were among the crowd last year.

Show secretary Denis Dooley said: “It was a great honour to receive this award and is a huge recognition for the 495 volunteers who help to make the show happen. It’s an example of how successful the show has become and we’re very much looking forward to 2015.”

Next year’s show will be held at New Park on July 28-30.