Royal Cornwall Show back after Covid cancellations

Wandering around the cattle lines is one of the highlights for many visitors, organisers said

The Royal Cornwall Show returns after it was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid pandemic.

Thousands of visitors will descend on the Wadebridge showground for the three-day event.

They include the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall, who are due to visit on Friday.

"The Jubilee celebrations have shown the country is ready for a party and Cornwall's party is coming this week," said show secretary, Chris Riddle.

Morwenna Thurley, from Helston, prepared her Blue Texel lamb in her first time exhibiting at the show

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Prince Charles first visited the Royal Cornwall Show in 1970 and was last at the show in 2018.

The Prince of Wales has been the patron of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association, the charity that organises the Royal Cornwall Show, since 2002.

• Riding in the Royal Cornwall Show ring

• The story of the famous A39 painted gate

The show contains traditional elements, including the show classes for animals, vast numbers of food and drink stands showcasing the county's finest produce, and lots of music, dance and entertainment.

Show secretary Chris Riddle said it was great to see it "back in action"

Becky Jenkin said she was exhibiting Aberdeen Angus at the show for the first time.

"We are feeling the pressure, we are very nervous but excited to see how we fare against the competition," she said.

"It's really exciting to be back... I think we're going to have a wonderful show."

James Eustice, chief cattle steward, said entries were down this year but "not too drastically".

"People have got out of the way of it for two years, and the TB situation is having a big effect on it.

"I think now the community are looking forward to getting back to having a show - Cornwall really needs something like this," he said.

A large selection of vehicles, both vintage and modern are on display

Chris Riddle told BBC Radio Cornwall it was great to see the show, which dates back to 1793, "back in action".

"It means so much to the county, to the people and those closely involved with the show.

"It's a big part of their lives and we have all missed that."

"People seem to be here in force and the show is looking fabulous," he said.

The show runs from Thursday until Saturday.