Will Covid restrictions limit numbers at agricultural shows?

Organisers of Cereals say the event will go ahead as planned later this month, despite the delay in the lifting of lockdown restrictions.

The biggest technical event for the UK arable industry, which is partnered by Farmers Weekly, will be held in Lincolnshire on 30 June to 1 July.

Prime minister Boris Johnson has delayed lifting Covid restrictions in England to 19 July amid growing concern that the Delta variant is causing an increase in cases.

See also: Mixed prospects for agriculture shows during 2021

Part of the government guidance states that at least until 19 July a maximum of 4,000 people, or 50% of a site or venue’s capacity – whichever is lowest – will be allowed.

However, Cereals event organiser Alli McEntyre said it had met a number of conditions to receive approval from the local authority to allow more than 4,000 attendees.

This includes assurances that visitors will be dispersed across a sufficiently large geographic area or distributed throughout the day, to mitigate the risk of crowding at the venue.

Covid secure

Other conditions around Covid-secure guidance, including safety measures around entry and exit points, toilet facilities, food and drink facilities and on public transport, have also been met.

“We are really pleased to reassure visitors that the event is definitely going ahead without restrictions and in line with all regulations,” said Ms McEntyre.

Organisers of the Groundswell two-day, no-till event in Hertfordshire said the event will also go ahead on 23-24 June, with a maximum of 4,000 visitors each day.

“The new site of Groundswell is 100% outdoors and Covid secure. The event is still permitted to go ahead as planned in accordance with the government’s regulations,” said a statement.

“Groundswell is fully prepared with open-sided tents and large walkways, adhering to the latest coronavirus guidelines.”

Great Yorkshire Show latest

Meanwhile, the Great Yorkshire Show will take place from 13-16 July, as planned. Organisers said most of the show will be held outdoors and will run over four days for the first time in its history.