By Chris Cornford
The organising committee of the Royal Isle of Wight County Show has announced the cancellation of the 2021 show, due to have been held in July.
Graham Biss, County Show chairman, said: “The need to make this decision is very much regretted because we know many people were looking forward to the show. This was not an easy decision and one we would have preferred not to have to take but our overriding priority is safety of everyone associated with the show. The planning cycle for the show means it was important to make a timely decision.”
Building on the success of last year’s open air markets at their Northwood showground, the Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society (RIWAS) is planning to hold more of the events this summer to support local businesses and provide Islanders with the opportunity for outdoor shopping.
As Covid restrictions relax and when the way forward becomes clearer it is also hoped that it will be possible to arrange a ‘Country Fair’ style event at the showground in late August to support the traders and partners who normally attend the County Show. Further details will be announced later in the year.
David Groves, RIWAS Chairman, said: “Whilst we are disappointed it has been necessary to cancel this year’s County Show we are fortunate to have a 27-acre site, so if anyone is looking for a venue to hold an outdoor event we would be pleased to hear from them.”
Press Release