The Royal Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS) has spoken about the current planning situation for the 2021 Royal Highland Show.
Mark Currie, director of operations at RHASS, said:
“During such uncertain times for everyone, I would firstly like to take this opportunity to wish you well and hope that you are managing to cope with the continued effects that the Covid-19 pandemic is having on our daily lives.
This is an unsettling time for us all and I want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to plan for a safe Royal Highland Show.
“This includes continuing to work with the Scottish government at all levels to help inform and develop guidance that would allow us to hold a great event.
“On Wednesday, February 3, our new Members Pavilion was transformed into an NHS vaccination centre, and with the encouraging news of the successful vaccine rollout we remain optimistic about delivering the best show possible this year.”
Cancellation of other events
Currie continued:
“I’m sure that you will have seen the recent cancellation of some other large-scale events and the postponement of some major agricultural shows as well.
“Whilst they have chosen to cancel or postpone, they will have done this within the context of their own local situation.
We are fully aware and appreciate that, with the ever-evolving nature of the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a chance that the Royal Highland Show may not be able to go ahead; however, at this moment in time we remain positive and thank you all for your continued support.
“If we were to cease planning now but received positive news from the Scottish government in the coming weeks, we would be in no position to hold a show, so we are working hard to ensure we make the most informed decision we can at the right time.
The safety of you and your teams, our members, livestock exhibitors, directors, staff, volunteers and visitors is our number one priority, and we would never jeopardise that.
“We are very conscious that things can change quickly, and we will keep you updated with any information as and when we receive it so please watch out for future communication from us in due course,” he concluded.
