THIS year’s Royal Welsh Show has been cancelled - with organisers saying advice against attending mass gatherings makes it impossible to go ahead.

Last week the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society announced it had cancelled the Spring Fair in May and was still keeping any decision about its main July show under review.

The cancellation of Europe’s biggest agricultural show, which is held every July at the Llanelwedd showground near Builth Wells, follows a decision to cancel the Hay Festival which is another major annual event in Powys.

A statement by the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society said: "The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society after taking careful account of the latest Government and Public Health guidance, has today announced the cancellation of the 2020 Royal Welsh Show."

The show was last cancelled in 2001 due to the foot and mouth disease outbreak. It was due to take place from Monday, July 20 to Thursday, July 23 this year and typically attracts up to 200,000 visitors over its four days.

The statement said: "We have considered postponement or whether we could run a smaller event, but for many reasons, neither of these options are viable. Whilst this news is disappointing for everyone, we are sure that you would agree that the health, safety and wellbeing of our members, visitors, exhibitors and staff is of paramount importance.

"This will be a difficult year for the society and we understand that we are not alone and that we will all be affected by the financial outcome of this scenario. We have created a cancellation policy that we hope allows those requiring refunds to receive them. At the same time, we are giving the opportunity for our many supporters to leave funds already committed with the Society, or to be rolled over to 2021."

Chief executive Steve Hughson said: "Any e-tickets already purchased can be rolled over to the 2021 Royal Welsh Show at this year’s prices. A full refund will be given to anyone requiring this option.

All competition entry fees and associated costs will be refunded.

Traders and sponsors will have the opportunity to leave funds already committed with the society to secure their presence at the 2021 Show at this year’s rates. Full refunds will be given to everyone requesting that option.

Members will have the opportunity to secure a caravan plot for the 2021 Show at this year’s rates by taking no further action. Any member wishing to cancel their booking will receive a full refund."