There will be no poultry classes at this years Balmoral show according to the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society. The society said they were ‘dissapointed’ to have to make the decision for the show which is being held on May 10 to 13 last this year. The decision was been taken due to the continued ban on poultry gatherings in Northern Ireland. DAERA has confirmed that the risk of incursion of HPAI H5 in wild birds is still very high.

Show organisers plan to host a small display of birds from the same flock during the four days of the Show.

Meanwhile when the Scottish Farmer contacted the Royal Highland Show, a spokesperson stated they were taking advice from the Animal and Plant Health Agency and will be in a better position to clarify on the poultry classes within the next month. The Royal Highland Show is being held in June from Thursday 22 to Sunday 25 at Ingliston, Edinburgh.