Portishead’s annual summer show has been cancelled for the first time in its 157 year history – due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The show is a major highlight of the year for the town, attracting hundreds of entries and crowds over thousands over the two days.
The show is organised by the Portishead Horticultural Society and takes place at the town’s flower show field at Clapton Lane over a weekend in July.
As well as the exhibits themselves, from children's art to prize vegetables, there is also a range of other entertainment from live music to displays.
Now organisers have made the painful decision to cancel this year’s event amid fears social distancing could not be maintained.
Summer show general secretary Linda Hodgetts said: “We have had to take the sad decision of cancelling the Summer Show.
“This would have been our 157th year and with the exception of the war years this is the first time we have had to cancel.
“First and foremost we have to put the health and safety of our visitors, members, volunteers and exhibitors first.
“We felt it was impossible to hold a show of the same quality and standard that the Portishead community have come to expect with social distancing in place.
“Given the renewed interest in gardening this year we recognise how disappointing this news will be to many but we hope you understand.”
The society is now considering launching a virtual gardening competition for green fingered members of the community.
Mrs Hodgetts added: “We are considering a virtual gardening competition and will let people know if we decide to proceed.”
Next year’s show is planned for July 24 and 25.
