THE Royal Cornwall Show has been cancelled amid continuing uncertainty over social distancing requirements, restrictions and a potential third wave of the coronavirus.
The Show had initially been put back from its usual date in June to September of this year, but in an announcement yesterday (Tuesday March 30) the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association said that in the light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, its priority had to be the safety of visitors, exhibitors and staff.
“We had previously postponed the Show, in the hope that it would be possible to stage it in September,” said a spokesperson.
“However, with the current unknowns, it cannot be certain that holding the Royal Cornwall Show would be possible in anything like its usual form.
“Our main priority is to protect the health and safety of our visitors and all those involved in preparing and delivering the show, which means that this is the safest, and only decision we could make.”
Chris Riddle, secretary of the RCAA, said: “We know that this decision will come as a huge disappointment to many, including ourselves. We hope that our visitors, members, exhibitors, and traders, understand this difficult decision we have had to make, and we thank them for their patience at this time.”
“We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2022, when we can hopefully celebrate being together once more."
The next Royal Cornwall Show will take place on June 9 – 11 2022.
The RCAA team says it will be in touch with members, ticket holders and trade exhibitors, over the coming days to explain their options, and the next steps with the option to transfer bookings to 2022. However, they ask for people’s patience at this time while they are operating with reduced staffing levels.
"Please note, that if you have already paid for membership in 2021, that this will be automatically rolled-over to a 2022 Membership.
"We would also like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to all the key workers at this time, and all the work they have done, and continue to do for all of us and particularly those involved as staff or volunteers at either the Covid Testing Facility or the Mass Vaccination Centre here at the Royal Cornwall Events Centre.
"We wish everyone all the very best during these difficult times, and thank you all for your patience and support."