THE organising committee of the Royal Isle of Wight County Show has announced the cancellation of this year’s show on 30 August due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

In an attempt to support all visitors who attend and the businesses who benefit from the show, the final decision was left as late as possible.

In view of the ongoing uncertainty it is believed this is the right decision. Plans for next year’s show on 4 July are now underway.

Those who have already paid for a place at the show will be contacted and offered a full refund.

Graham Biss, County Show chairman, said: “We have watched as other Isle of Wight events have been cancelled and unfortunately we have now followed suit.

"Thank you to everyone who has helped make this difficult decision. The health and wellbeing of all our volunteers, exhibitors and visitors was our number one consideration.”

The Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society hopes to be able to support the Island’s recovery by making the 27-acre County Showground available for use by other organisations.

The Society looks forward to welcoming the Let’s Buy Local open air markets to the site on Sunday 5 and Sunday 12 July. Based upon the current advice and guidance, open air markets are considered to be low risk activities.

For more information please contact the Royal Isle of Wight Agricultural Society on 0845 226 9098, or visit riwas@naturalenterprise.co.uk.