Royal Highland show to stream event

The Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has confirmed that a live Showcase will go ahead behind closed doors.

Taking place the week commencing June 14, the Showcase will see the best in livestock judging, equestrian, food and drink and rural skills and will be livestreamed from the showground in Edinburgh to a global audience.

The announcement follows detailed planning in collaboration with the Scottish Government so as to develop an event that highlights the best of farming, food and rural life, both for a domestic audience and internationally, maintaining Scotland’s reputation as the ‘Perfect Stage’ for major events.

Work will continue in the run up to the event to ensure that strict COVID-19 protocols are in place.

Scottish Government funding of up to £750,000 will be provided to support the event, protecting the long-term sustainability of the Royal Highland Show and recognising its key role as a vehicle for education and cultural promotion of the Scottish rural and agricultural industries.

Speaking about the event, RHASS Chairman, Bill Gray is delighted that the event is going ahead.

He explained: “This year’s Showcase will give us a fantastic opportunity to bridge the gap between a no-show year in 2020 and the 180th Royal Highland Show celebration in 2022, the bicentennial anniversary of our very first show.”

Thanking everyone for their backing in the project, he added: “The support we have garnered from the wider agricultural sector, coupled with Scottish Government funding, reinforces the importance of the Royal Highland Show.

“This Showcase will enable us to shine a light on our farmers and rural communities, who have been steadfast throughout this pandemic and allow us the opportunity to promote rural Scotland to a wider audience.”