AUGUST EVENT ABANDONED

THIS year’s Anglesey Show has become the latest victim of the coronavirus crisis.

Anglesey Agricultural Society said it took the decision to cancel its 2020 show “with deepest regret” in order to safeguard its members, visitors and staff.

Instead the society will consider alternatives later in the year, including a smaller event or a even a “virtual show” online.

Anglesey’s move to cancel its August outing was not unexpected and follows last month’s decision by the Royal Welsh Show to abandon its July date.

In a statement, the society said: “Although the show doesn’t take place until August, we had to make an early decision to inform our exhibitors.

“This news is disappointing, as many of you look forward to the show annually. As a result, we as a society will consider other options to showcase agriculture.”

The society accepts there will be financial fallout: its showground office is now closed and staff were being furloughed for three months from Friday.

Anyone who bought an e-ticket will be refunded over the coming weeks. Traders and sponsors can either request a full refund – or they can transfer their bookings to secure a place at the 2021 show on August 10-11. Meanwhile Society members are being asked to continue their support.

Llanrwst Rural Show has also been cancelled, leaving North Wales bereft of agricultural shows in June. It too has begun issuing refunds and has confirmed its 2021 date as June 26.

In a statement, organisers said they had hoped to wait until the end of April to make a decision – but the lockdown left them with little option but to cancel.