'We must support rural businesses': Local MP comments on cancelled show

Honiton Agricultural Show is a hallowed date in the diary for many living locally, especially those involved in the countryside or farming.

With the inevitable announcement that this year's show will not be happening, we heard from member of parliament for Honiton, Neil Parish.

He said: "Obviously it is incredibly disappointing for everyone involved in the show.

"From the organisers who have been getting everything ready, to our local producers and agricultural community, our nominated charity and everyone else who visits annually to make it such a great occasion.

"This year was going to be the 130th Honiton show – so we'll have to make up for it doubly next year.

"Until then, we need to back British agriculture and rural business, help growers pick their produce, buy local and support our community thoroughly during this tough time."

Former Honiton councillor, Duncan Sheridan-Shaw also commented: "The cancellation of our annual Agricultural Show is a huge blow both financially and socially.

"The show was, and will continue to be, a huge draw to thousands of people and not just those in the farming community.

"It's a terrible reflection of the times that we have lost many, many, events to the tragedy of the Covid-19 crisis.

"However we must take heed of the governmental advice and realise the we are now living in the 'new normal' and as sad as the situation is if we don't pay attention, we may not all be here to enjoy the show next year."