Show organisers making plans for events to return next year

Societies from Turriff to Perth determined to bounce back after this season’s cancellations

Agricultural shows are only cancelled in the most extreme weather-related circumstances – and never until the very last hopes of rescue have been extinguished.

So having to cancel “the show” months ahead of the scheduled date, knowing how much it will disappoint loyal exhibitors, sponsors, trade stand holders and thousands of paying visitors, has made it particularly hard for show committees across the country this year.

Some had special anniversary celebrations planned for 2020, others had highlights that were still to be unveiled, but the restrictions imposed around the global pandemic ultimately took decision-making out of the hands of individual societies.

However, most of the key shows across Courier and Press & Journal country have bounced back and have already announced they are carrying their plans forward to 2021.

Banchory Show had been gearing up to celebrate the 200th anniversary of being founded in 1820, and Deeside Agricultural Association’s show secretary, Ernie Christie, said the special events planned for the end of July included a “March of Time” to commemorate the advances made in agricultural machinery over the centuries.

“But now we’re carrying it all over to July 31 next year instead,” he said.

“We’ve contacted the judges who are all happy to put the date in their diaries, and we have the band rebooked already for the marquee dance.

“And we’ll use the extra time to ask local people to look out old photographs or memorabilia associated with previous shows for a special exhibition next year.”

The Limousin Grand Prix was scheduled to be a focus of this year’s Turriff Show, and many exhibitors from south of the border had expressed interest in making the trip to compete alongside dozens of Scottish breeders.

Show secretary Helen Paterson is optimistic the national competition can take place at Turriff next year instead, alongside the Highland Gathering of Highland cattle, which is held every two years.

She said: “Turriff Show is huge for the local economy and a big social gathering for nearly 25,000 people over two days, so cancelling has been a blow, but we’re already making plans for 2021.”

Meanwhile, all show committees are concentrating on keeping finances under control while they function without any prospect of sponsorship or gate money for more than 12 months.

Perth Show secretary Neil Forbes said: “We have reserves, so we’re not broke but we’re being very careful indeed about spending any money.”

Pictures: Kris Miller/Jason Hedges/Wullie Marr. Clockwise from top: A busy scene at Turriff Show; some of the crowds at Keith Show; the parade at Perth Show; and visitors brave the rain at the Angus Show.