Agricultural show scenes such as the above already seem like a distant memory. But amidst all the gloom of a largely decimated calendar of agricultural events this year due to the coronavirus outbreak there is a glimmer of light. It’s been confirmed that the annual British Farming Awards will go ahead this year, albeit in a brand-new virtual format.
This AgriBriefing event, supported by Morrisons, recognises the innovation and achievement of individuals and businesses across British agriculture. Last year, the awards ceremony, held at the National Conference Centre, Birmingham, and hosted by Vernon Kay, was attended by 700 farmers and industry professionals.
This year, the awards night, to be held on Wednesday October 21st will be presented via a bespoke digital platform live into people’s homes. So, if, like me, you’re fed up with the broadcast media’s continuing coronavirus-fest or binge-watching old films and TV series, this might make a pleasant change! To be part of the audience, you’ll need to register on the BFA website.
Other major events to go online this year include CEREALS on 10th and 11th June. CEREALS LIVE 2020 will feature, amongst other things, an interactive visitor experience with a virtual map and live exhibitor chats, multiple themed webinar sessions that tackle the industry’s most pressing challenges, including the impact of Coronavirus – with an opportunity to collect BASIS & NRoSO points. The organisers also promise a full range of exhibitor led content, including video from crop plots, sprays and sprayers and working demonstrations, as well as new product launches. To register, you’ll need to visit the Cereals website.
Shows to be cancelled outright in 2020 include the Royal Highland, the Royal Welsh, Grassland & Muck plus a host of regional shows across the length and breadth of the UK.
Looking further ahead to 2021, LAMMA in January is by no means safe from postponement or cancellation. A decision will be made by the organisers nearer the time.
Hopefully next year, we can all look forward to better times and a return to something approaching the ‘normal’ that we’re used to when exhibiting at or visiting the shows that are such an intrinsic part of a healthy UK agriculture industry
