The Board of Directors of three major agricultural events in the South West - the Royal Bath and West Show, the Devon County Show and the Royal Cornwall Show - have today (March 17) announced the postponement of their events due to the increased threat of the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19).

Following the Government's guidance, it is clear that Covid-19 will still be very active within our communities during May and June so the three shows feel it is the most responsible action to reschedule to protect their visitors, traders and exhibitors from the spread of the virus.  

While the boards of each show admit this is an extremely difficult decision to make and appreciate the disruption and disappointment the postponement may cause, it has been unanimously agreed that the shows' absolute priorities must lie with the protection of public health. 

The three shows all of which were scheduled to take place in spring, will be postponed until:

July 31, August 1 and 2 – The Royal Bath and West Show, which is held near Shepton Mallet.

August 28 to 30 – Devon County Show

September 10 to 12 – The Royal Cornwall Show

The agricultural show sector is represented by the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO) which is monitoring the situation in the hope that the popular show season can be maintained while continuing to recognise the importance of managing public health.

Rupert Cox, the chief executive of the Royal Bath and West Show said: "Obviously we are very disappointed to have to postpone our ever-popular Royal Bath and West Show.

"We hope that our visitors, traders and exhibitors will understand we are in unprecedented circumstances and that we have a civic responsibility to act with caution. 

"We look forward to welcoming everyone back to the show on July 31, August 1 and 2 when we will throw a wonderful party in celebration of Great British farming and rural life. If you can't make our event, then please support our friends in Devon and Cornwall." 

Each show would like to thank the public, traders, competitors and sponsors for their understanding and patience during this period of uncertainty and what is an unprecedented situation.