Nottinghamshire County Show cancelled amid coronavirus fears

The Nottinghamshire County Show, which was due to take place at Newark Showground in May has been cancelled, organisers confirmed.
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The Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS) made the announcement today, in light of recent government advise for people to avoid unnecessary contact.

A spokesperson for the NNAS said: “In light of the ongoing developments with coronavirus here in the UK, we’ve taken the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 County Show.

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“We feel this is the most sensible approach in the interest of public health and the wellbeing of our community and staff.

Nottinghamshire County Show 2018Nottinghamshire County Show 2018
Nottinghamshire County Show 2018

“We welcome thousands of visitors every year, and despite many offers of support and encouragement, we have received so many responses from supporters highlighting difficulties in being able to run the show that our efforts will be unfortunately frustrated.

“Making this decision now will help us to limit the impact on our charity and keep the safety of everyone involved at the heart of all we do.

“The cancellation of the county show is a huge blow to the Society, as we rely on the income we derive through ticket sales, sponsorship and trade stand income.

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“Without the show, we will become more reliant on philanthropic support and charitable donations in order to continue with our charitable activities supporting agriculture, education and the wider farming community.

“As a charitable organisation, we rely heavily on the support and goodwill of our members, exhibitors and sponsors.

“The next three months are going to be challenging for us all. If you feel you would like to support our charitable work, we would be extremely grateful if you could perhaps consider donating all or part of your contribution to the NNAS

“We remain committed to supporting the agricultural community in Nottinghamshire and beyond and send our best wishes to you all.”

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Richard Sheldon, show chairman said: “We are devasted to be making this announcement, but we fully support the Government on this matter - public health and safety has to be our number one priority.

“We know this will be very sad and disappointing news for all involved, however we must always put the health and welfare of our staff, volunteers, customers, exhibitors and visitors first.