Wayland Show cancelled after sewage leak

Thousands of farmers were left disappointed after the Wayland Agricultural Show was cancelled due to a sewage leak.

More than 15,000 visitors were expected to attend the 139th Wayland Agricultural Show, held near Watton, Norfolk on Sunday (5 August).

But organisers cancelled the show on Saturday night after a thunderstorm caused raw sewage to overflow from a faulty pumping station into ditches near the showground.

Wayland Show organisers released a statement on its website, saying: “The showground has been affected by a problem with an Anglian Water sewage pumping station that is situated by the side of the showground.

“As raw liquid effluent flooded part of the showground late this afternoon, 4 August, we have been advised by Anglian Water that no public can be permitted to enter the showground for public health and safety reasons and regrettably we have no option, we have cancelled the show.

“We understand there will be many disappointed people, visitors, exhibitors, competitors and trade-stand owners. We are sorry but we hope you will understand that we have no option.”

Anglian Water said it was the show organisers’ decision to cancel the show.

The 2012 Wayland Show had been expected to draw livestock entrants and judges from across the country. The event had hoped to raise more than £30,000 for good causes.

Sheepdog trials, country pursuits, cookery challenges and quadbike stunt displays had been planned.