One of Europe’s largest agricultural shows has been cancelled due to the “deteriorating situation” surrounding coronavirus. 

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society announced on Monday that the 2020 Royal Welsh Show will not go ahead in July. 

The society says it had “no other option” but to cancel the show following the government’s advice against attending mass gatherings and unnecessary travel.

Hundreds of thousands of people attend the agricultural show every year in Llanelwedd. 

The highlight in the Welsh agricultural calender, the Royal Welsh Show has been cancelled only four times before; during both world wars, the 1947 fuel crisis and the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001.

Steve Hughson, chief executive, said: “It is with deep regret that due to the deteriorating situation surrounding Coronavirus, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society after taking careful account of the latest Government and Public Health guidance, has today announced the cancellation of the 2020 Royal Welsh Show.

“We have considered postponement or whether we could run a smaller event, but for many reasons, neither of these options are viable. Whilst this news is disappointing for everyone, we are sure that you would agree that the health, safety and wellbeing of our members, visitors, exhibitors and staff is of paramount importance.

“This will be a difficult year for the society and we understand that we are not alone and that we will all be affected by the financial outcome of this scenario. 

Mr Hughson added: “We have created a cancellation policy that we hope allows those requiring refunds to receive them on the basis of what is listed below. At the same time, we are giving the opportunity for our many supporters to leave funds already committed with the society, or to be rolled over to 2021.”

County Times: The Young People's Village near the Royal Welsh Showground.The Young People's Village near the Royal Welsh Showground.
The Wales Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs, widely known as YFC, said it is sorry to announce that the 2020 Young People’s Village is cancelled on what would have been its 30th anniversary being held at Court Farm.

In a statement on Tuesday, Wales YFC said: “Of course we all hope that the situation is much improved by the middle of July, however, with all of the preparations required, ahead of what would have been our 30th anniversary of the event being held at Court Farm, we would not be able to ensure the safety of all individuals involved.

“We appreciate that this decision will be disappointing to all of our loyal supporters and to those who support our event as partners. Please be assured that as an organisation we will continue to work hard to ensure that support is provided to the young people and our communities of rural Wales.”