Organisers have pulled the plug on Scotland’s only city centre farming show.
The 158th Perth Show was due to take place at the Fair City’s South Inch at the end of July.
Promoters said just three weeks ago that the event was still scheduled to go-ahead, but only they could find a way to ensure it complied safely with government guidelines.
This weekend, chairman Mark Mitchell confirmed the show could not go on due to continued Covid-19 restrictions.
The decision was taken following a virtual meeting of Perth Agricultural Society directors.
Mr Mitchell said: “It is with a heavy heart and huge personal disappointment that I announce the cancellation of the 2020 Perth Show.
“Given the amount of hard work, planning and commitment that goes into organising the event, it’s not a decision that we wanted to take.
“But, in light of the government guidance, we believe this to be the correct course of action as the safety of all involved is our utmost priority.”
He said: “I would like to thank everyone who has given their time to work on this year’s show. The focus will now be on making sure we provide Perth with a show to celebrate and remember next year.
“In the meantime, I’d like to thank our key frontline workers including farmers, NHS staff and local businesses who are working under challenging circumstances to ensure our country stays safe and well.
“Perth Agricultural Society encourages everyone to stay home, stay safe and save lives.”
He said he looked forward to welcoming the public back to the arena in 2021.
The farming event, one of the biggest and longest running in Scotland, attracts thousands of visitors to the Fair City each year, delivering a welcome boost to the local economy.
This weekend’s announcement follows the cancellation of shows Kelty, Brechin, Alyth and Dunblane.
The Royal Highland Show, which was due to be staged in mid-June, was one of the first to be cancelled over pandemic restrictions.
A group involved in this year’s Perth show, Dog Friendly Perthshire, has expressed its sadness.
“We are absolutely gutted,” a spokeswoman said. “The organisers have made the correct and sensible decision though it can’t go ahead due to social distancing.
“We were given a fantastic opportunity this year to work along side the Perth Show to bring a new and exciting arena and stall area just for dogs, but we will be back next year to be part of this historic Perth event.”
