THE Royal Cornwall Show 2020 has been cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The show had been moved to September 10-12 from its usual June slot when lockdown was introduced in the UK seven weeks ago.
But in the light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and recent updates from the UK Government, the Council of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association (RCAA), with great disappointment, has announced its cancellation.
Chris Riddle, secretary of the RCAA, said: ’We have left this difficult decision for as long as we feasibly could, having previously postponed the show from June to September, in the hope that it was possible to stage it then.
’However, with the current conditions on social distancing and possible Government restrictions on large events for the foreseeable future, it is just not possible to host a safe event for all those involved.
’Our main obligation and priority is to protect the health and safety of our visitors, members, traders, exhibitors, staff and all those involved in preparing and delivering the show, which means that this is the safest, and only decision we could make.
’We hope that our visitors, members, exhibitors, and traders, understand this difficult decision we have had to make, and we thank them for their patience at this time.
’We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2021, where we can hopefully celebrate being together once more, and celebrating the support we have shown each other through this global pandemic.
’The RCAA team will be in touch with ticket holders, exhibitors, and traders, over the coming days to explain their options and the next steps. But we do ask for your patience at this time while we are operating with reduced staffing levels.
’If you would like more information, we have set up an FAQ page on our website www.royalcornwallshow.org
’We would also like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the key workers at this time, literally putting their lives on the line to save ours.
’We wish everybody the best during these times, and thank you all for your patience and support.’The 2021 show will take place on June 10, 11 and 12.