Two of Guernsey’s popular summer shows have been cancelled due to the Covid-19 outbreak.
The South Show, along with the North Show and Battle of Flowers, announced their decision on social media, citing the likely continuation of travel restrictions and social distancing as the reason.
‘After some discussions with the committee, we have sadly reached the conclusion that the show cannot be put on this year for the first time, we believe, since the Occupation, which is disappointing given the work already undertaken,’ said Gary Trimbee-Laine, the Northern Agricultural and Horticultural Society show’s president.
‘We totally understand the reasons behind this, of course, and have a duty of care to islanders by adhering to the measures being implemented by the Civil Contingencies Committee.’
The North Show was due to be held at Saumarez Park on Wednesday 25 and Thursday 26 August, with UK acts booked to perform. Its committee now plans to stage a scaled down version of the show virtually instead, either via their Facebook page or website.
‘One should not underestimate the effort that goes into putting on such an event, which starts soon after the fireworks display the previous year. As 2021 marks the centenary of the very first North Show, we are all absolutely determined to put on one of the best next year to mark this special occasion,’ said Mr Trimbee-Laine.
The South Show was also planned for August, but it is likely some form of social distancing measures will still be in place by then.
‘Many of you have been using this lockdown period to work on your craft entries, plant your fruit and veg and hone your baking skills in preparation for exhibiting in August, so of course this is a real shame, however the safety of the community has to take priority and a decision had to be taken sooner rather than later,’ said a spokesperson for the South Show, which said the majority of its committee, helpers and volunteers were in the vulnerable age bracket for Covid-19.
