One of the north-east’s biggest agricultural shows has been cancelled for the first time in 20 years due to coronavirus.
The Turriff Show, which regularly attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually, was due to take place on August 2 and 3 but today the organisers have announced that the committee has voted to cancel.
Show president Alan Gaul said the cancellation had been agreed with a “heavy heart”.
He said: “I’m sure that our decision will not come as a huge surprise given that many other shows scheduled for this summer have already unfortunately been cancelled.
“We have been monitoring all UK and Scottish government guidelines and updates on a daily basis and the decision has not been taken lightly.
“We are not alone with the decision we’ve had to come to, and we empathise with all other events in the same situation.”
Plans for the 2020 event were already well under way, including the Scottish Limousin Club’s National Grand Prix and the introduction of Bridgend Aggregates as the new main sponsor, as well as the return of regular exhibitors.
Mr Gaul added: “There is so much hard work and dedication that goes into organising an event like this at Turriff.
“The success over the years has been down to the continued support of the local community and businesses and we have no doubt this will continue in the future.
“We have been extremely lucky over the years, with the last full show cancellation in 2001 due to the foot and mouth outbreak.
“Prior to that, the last cancellation was during the war years.”
Last year, more than 24,000 visitors attended the Turriff Show at The Haughs to see the livestock, more than 300 exhibitor stands, enjoy Scottish food and drink and take part in all manner of fun activities.
Mr Gaul said: “I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge all of our key frontline workers including farmers, NHS staff and local businesses who are working around the clock under difficult circumstances to ensure our country stays safe and well.
“We encourage everyone to stay home, stay safe and we look forward to welcoming you all to the Turriff Show in 2021.”
