Cancellation of show ‘correct course of action’

ORGANISERS have pulled the plug on Scotland’s only city centre farming show.

The 158th Perth Show was due to take place at the Fair City’s South Inch at the end of July.

Promoters said just three weeks ago that the event was still scheduled to go ahead but only if they could find a way to ensure it complied safely with government guidelines.

Howwever, chairman Mark Mitchell has now confirmed the show could not go on due to continued Covid-19 restrictions.

The decision was taken following a virtual meeting of Per th Agricultural Society directors.

Mr Mitchell said: “It is with a heavy heart and huge personal disappointment that I announce the cancellation of the 2020 Perth Show.

“Given the amount of hard work, planning and commitment that goes into organising the event, it’s not a decision that we wanted to take.

“But, in light of the government guidance, we believe this to be the correct course of action as the safety of all involved is our utmost priority.”

He said: “I would like to thank everyone who has given their time to work on this year’s show. The focus will now be on making sure we provide Perth with a show to celebrate and remember next year.

“In the meantime, I’d like to thank our key frontline workers including farmers, NHS staff and local businesses who are working under challenging circumstances to ensure our country stays safe and well.

“Per th Agricultural Society encourages everyone to stay home, stay safe and save lives.”

He said he looked forward to welcoming the public back to the arena in 2021.

The farming event, one of the biggest and longest running in Scotland, attracts thousands of visitors to the Fair City each year, delivering a welcome boost to the local economy.

The announcement follows the cancellation of shows at Kelty, Brechin, Alyth and Dunblane.