ONE of the biggest agricultural shows in the south west, held right here on our doorstep, has been cancelled because of the coronavirus crisis.

The Dorset County Show's organisers say they have taken the 'regrettable decision' to cancel the two-day show, which was set to take place on September 4 and 5.

The annual show is made up of a whole host of diverse events - aimed to promote Dorset’s renowned agricultural industry as well as the county’s range of high-quality food and craft producers to the public.

Nicki Ralph, Chair of the Dorset County Show, said: "We've made the regrettable decision not to hold the Dorset County Show this year, due to the uncertainties surrounding Covid-19 restrictions.

"Planning for the 2021 show began in 2020 and we have now reached a critical stage for confirming various elements including contractors and suppliers.

"Although the vaccination programme is progressing well and the Government announced its roadmap to recovery, we appreciate things may still be subject to change.

"The safety and welfare of everyone involved in the show remains our top priority and we'll therefore be focusing our efforts on hosting a series of ‘alternative events’ for 2021 in place of our flagship show.

"Our new programme of events allows us to celebrate Dorset agriculture and local produce through a smaller scale format, to ensure health and safety standards are sufficiently managed.

"We look forward giving the public an opportunity to enjoy many elements they know and love from the Dorset County Show. Planning preparations for 2022 will also kick off towards the end of this year, so we’ll be working hard to bring back our main event in its fullest form next year."

The show is a well-established annual fixture in the county calendar for both the agricultural industry and local community.

The show attracts around 60,000 visitors over the two-day event - held at Cokers Frome Farm, held north of Dorchester, just off the B3143.

Taking place at the end of the summer, the show would have aligned with the end of the harvest season - allowing farmers a chance to celebrate and spend time with others within the industry.