Ryedale Show will be held as a large virtual event once again this year.

Organisers said that although the Covid roadmap indicates that large gatherings should hopefully commence from June 21, there are still significant milestones to be passed – and unfortunately the commitment to a live event that may yet have to be either restricted or even cancelled proved too great a financial risk.

Christine Thompson, Show Secretary, said: “All event organisers face some difficult decisions at this moment in time.

“Work on this year’s Ryedale Show would normally have commenced at the end of last year and we have left the decision for as long as we possibly could whilst closely monitoring the ever-changing Covid guidance.

“The roadmap does provide the positivity that is sorely needed however, each individual show society is having to look carefully at the timing of their shows, their own facilities and resources and thereby weigh up the associated benefits and risks.

“We will now start preparation for a virtual event that will be accessible to as many supporters as possible and which will include classes from all Show sections together with activity from trade stand exhibitors.

“We, along with many others, will then look forward to a large awards presentation party to be held in the autumn when everyone should feel completely safe.”

The virtual show will be held on Tuesday, July 27, with details to follow.

Malton, Rosedale and Thornton-le-Dale shows have already been cancelled this year.