Llanbister Show has brought in extra safety measures for its horse events this year following a rise in cases of equine influenza.

The show, which takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 25, will only allow horses and ponies that are fully vaccinated against equine flu into its horse and show jumping classes.

Competitors will also be asked to confirm their animals have not attended any other competitions or been moved between yards or premises in the seven days before the show.

The move has been introduced on veterinary advice and is aimed at reducing the risk of the virus spreading on the showground.

On arrival, passports and vaccination records will be checked before any horses are unloaded. Organisers are also encouraging competitors to submit documents in advance for checking where possible.

A notice issued by the show committee asks people not to attend if their horse or pony is showing any signs of illness or flu-like symptoms.

It also reminds competitors to avoid close contact between animals, not to share equipment, buckets or tack, and to use hand sanitiser where possible.

Organisers say the steps are necessary to protect both animals and competitors and to ensure the show can go ahead safely.

For those who want to pre-submit vaccination records, these can be emailed to [email protected] and full details are also available on the Llanbister Show Facebook page.

The committee has thanked competitors for their cooperation, s it works to ensure a fun and safe day for all.

Away from the biosecurity measures, organisers are preparing for a fantastic show with a space-themed “Outer Space” show for 2026.

The show is the first of the local agricultural shows in the calendar year and will take place alongside a full programme of events running across the previous weekend.

These include a primary children’s disco on Friday, May 22, a car treasure hunt starting from Llanbister on Saturday at 4pm, and speed shearing on Sunday evening at Cefn Bronllys.

On show day itself there will be traditional horse, show jumping, sheep and dog classes, alongside returning attractions such as Llandrindod Silver Band, local singer Rhian Hughes, and a range of craft, produce and photography competitions.

New additions include a flyball dog agility demonstration and Revvi Bike children’s safe electric bike racing.

The pig section is expecting a full house, with several families of sows and litters. The small animal section has also been renamed “Fur and Friends” this year, with birds excluded due to avian flu precautions.

A vintage vehicles and machinery display will not take place this year due to organisational issues and clashes with other similar events.

Llandrindod Town Crier Jan Swindale will return once again to make traditional announcements around the showground.

The overall theme for art, craft and photography entries is “Outer Space”.

Food and refreshments will be available on site, including a tea tent, bar, ice cream, raffle, bouncy castles and children’s play area, along with stalls from local groups and traders.