ORGANISERS of the annual countryside spectacular held near Tiverton, the Mid Devon Show, have announced that this year’s event has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a a statement issued on April 24, the Show said: "It is with much sadness that we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Show.

"The ongoing developments surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic will not allow us to hold the event safely.

"On April 23, the Chairman of the Mid Devon Show spoke with all the organisation committee and a unanimous decision was made to cancel the 2020 show with immediate effect.

"This decision was based on recent Government advice surrounding social distancing and for the welfare and interests of the community, the public, the traders, and exhibitors.

"We realise that this will be a huge disappointment to everyone involved with the show and of course the thousands of visitors who join us each year.

"However I am sure you will understand the reasons why we have had to make this decision. We tried to remain positive for as long as we could, however the long-term view of large gatherings has forced us into this difficult decision.

"We would like to thank all the suppliers, traders and the general public for remaining positive with us and, of course, our army of volunteers who have worked so hard up to this point.

"You will appreciate that the show office will be very busy in the next few weeks contacting people to discuss their commitments to the show with bookings or tickets. Rest assured we will be in contact as quickly as we can and we thank you for your patience in advance.

"This also gives us the opportunity to start plans for our 2021 show earlier than normal. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the showground on the July 24, 2021.

"It certainly will be a bigger chance than ever to have a true celebration of Mid Devon Life.

"Everyone at Mid Devon Show would like to wish the very best to everyone at this difficult time and if we can do anything to assist please get in contact."