AYR County Show 2021 is the latest victim of the continuing Covid-19 pandemic.

The Ayrshire Agricultural Association has announced that, in view of the ongoing disruption and uncertainty, the show has been reluctantly postponed until Saturday, May 14, 2022.

Those responsible for putting on the show have met on several occasions to consider whether or not it would be possible to safely, and with confidence, put on a 2021 show, but decided that, with so much uncertainty over the foreseeable future, reinforced by the introduction of new lockdown measures, it seems certain that restrictions for events will persist over the coming months.

In a statement on social media, show chairman John Barclay said: "Putting on the show we all wish for, set against the risks of it being allowed to happen in the way we would intend, led to the decision to cancel the 2021 event with immediate effect.

"This is not a decision we have taken lightly but, as always, the health, safety and wellbeing of all Ayr County Show attendees remains the number one priority; we felt it right at this particular time, in order to create clarity sooner rather than later and further reduce any potential reputational and financial risks to the Association. By moving the show to next year, we are allowing enough time for the Covid-19 vaccine programme to come into full effect, which we are confident will provide us with the opportunity to deliver the same outstanding Ayr County Show experience.

"Whilst recognising this is hugely disappointing for so many, we do feel that there may be a possibility to go ahead and organise a behind closed doors Horse event in 2021, we will keep you updated on our progression in organisation of this as soon as at all possible.

"We would like to thank everyone for their understanding and support in the face of these unprecedented challenges and look forward to welcoming you back to Ayr County Show in May 2022."