Balmoral Show will require vaccine proof or negative test
Anyone wanting to attend this year’s Balmoral Show must show proof of full vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test.
The event, an annual highlight in the farming and veterinary calendar, takes place from 22 to 25 September after being postponed from May.
It will be the first show since 2019 after he 2020 show was cancelled due to the pandemic.
Royal Ulster Agricultural Society chief Alan Crowe said: “We are delighted to officially launch the 2021 Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank. This week marks the seven week countdown until the 152nd Balmoral Show and plans are well underway.
“We are excited to welcome visitors back to Balmoral Park for the 2021 Balmoral Show and we have implemented a number of necessary changes to ensure a Covid-safe event and the safety and wellbeing of our visitors, exhibitors, stewards, officials and contractors remains the greatest importance.’’
‘Challenging times’
Visitors will have to provide proof they have had both vaccine doses – with the second administered at least 14 days before the event – a negative lateral flow test taken up to 48 hours before they visit, or proof of a Covid diagnosis within the previous 180 days which they have completed their period of self-isolation for.
Negative tests will be required for children 11 years and over.
A visitor code of conduct includes mandatory mask wearing in enclosed spaces, and a recommendation that people wear masks outdoors where it is difficult to socially distance.
Highlights include an enhanced National Show Jumping schedule, the RAF parachute team and a polo exhibition.
Cormac McKervey, senior agriculture manager for Ulster Bank, added: “The cancellation of the 2020 Show reinforced for many just how big an event Balmoral is for the local farming sector, not only in terms of economic importance but also the social aspect of the show.
“As we move closer to the Show, Ulster Bank’s message is that we are proud to reaffirm our commitment to the local agri-food industry. We recognise that these are challenging times for many farmers and producers and we want to use our sponsorship of the Balmoral Show to reassure our agri-customers that we are here to guide them through this period.”
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