The Kinross Show’s future has been secured for the next five years.
A new deal has been struck between site owners RSPB Scotland Loch Leven and organisers Kinross-shire Agrcultural Society allowing it to go ahead.
It is the first time a new lease has needed to be drawn up since the event moved from Kinross House in 2012 to its current home at the reserve on the southern banks of Loch Leven, near Kinross.
Nearly 3,000 visitors flock to the show that features more than 300 exhibitors and more than 60 trade stands.
A plethora of activities will take place, including bouncy castles, education marquees and livestock shows.
Vicky Turnbull, RSPB Scotland Tayside Warden, said: “We are delighted to agree a new lease and provide assurance for the use of the showground for years to come. It’s very exciting to have the Kinross Show here on the nature reserve.
“Making the fields available for the committee to transform into an extraordinary rural event that attracts so many visitors is a very worthwhile way to support our local community.”
This year’s one-day event will be its 188th annual show.
The new lease secures the use of the 13-hectare site over two fields until 2022. The deal includes a large car-parking area and access for the free buses that will run throughout the day.
Andy Marshall, Kinross-shire Agricultural Society president, said: “The renewed commitment from RSPB Scotland Loch Leven safeguards the future location of Kinross Show for a further five years.
“We really appreciate the good communication and positive working relationship with everyone at the reserve and are looking forward to making the final preparations for this year’s event.
“It’s a beautiful location. A lot of families take a picnic with them and enjoy the stunning views of the loch.
“It’s good to have a deal in place as we can start to plan ahead. If something doesn’t come together this year, we know there is a show next year and we will have more time to put that together, and so on.”
Mr Marshall predicts that a marquee that teaches children about food will be one of the biggest attractions of the show over the next five years.
It began three years ago, and teaches youngsters about making bread, where eggs come from and other food practices. There are also sheep shearing demonstrations.
This will be Mr Marshall’s last year as president as committee members take two-year terms. Andrew Turnbull will take the reigns next year.
The 2018 Kinross Show will take place on August 11.
