Skip to content

Poultry return to show after bird flu disruption

Jonathan MorrisSouth West
News imageBBC The image shows a person in a white coat holding a large golden chicken inside a tent lined with cages, likely at a poultry show or judging event. Another person stands nearby with a clipboard, while additional chickens, cages filled with wood shavings, and a table with papers and flowers are visible in the background.BBC
Judge Chris Burrows in the poultry tent

Poultry have returned to the Royal Cornwall Show after years of absences caused by bird flu.

Exhibitor Andrew Marment said the past five years had been tough, with Covid followed by repeated bird flu restrictions.

He said fewer people were now taking part in the show because many would "lose interest and go on to other hobbies like fishing".

Judge Chris Burrows said it was "really nice to get out and see some birds at a show".

News imageThe image shows a market stall piled high with freshly baked bread, including loaves, baguettes and croissants, arranged in wooden trays with small price signs such as “Plain Croissant £3”. A person wearing a cap stands behind the counter serving customers, while a crowd of shoppers fills the background.
News imageThe image shows a close-up of a light-coloured alpaca wearing a turquoise halter, standing inside a fenced enclosure. A small piece of hay is visible in the alpaca’s mouth, with a tent and metal railings in the background suggesting an indoor livestock or agricultural event.
Baked goods piled high at the Royal Cornwall Show
An alpaca takes in the show

The show, which runs from Thursday to Saturday at the Royal Cornwall Showground, near Wadebridge, is expected to draw tens of thousands of visitors for a celebration of farming, food and rural life.

It began life in 1793 as a ploughing match, before growing into an event with about 1,000 trade stands, livestock competitions, arena entertainment, food and drink, and live music.

Burrows said it was "really good to see poultry back at Royal Cornwall again" and praised the organisers, adding "the guys here have put on an excellent show for us".

News imageThe image shows a busy outdoor event with crowds of people walking between rows of tents, stalls and large vehicles. A food van with a sign reading “Kelly Whip” is parked along the main path, while flags, branded banners and exhibition stands line both sides, suggesting a large agricultural show or fair.
The show has had a strong start said organisers

Show secretary Mark Stoddard said the event had enjoyed a strong start, and that "the smiles are on the faces".

He said it was "really good to have the poultry back again as well", saying the show was an important moment for farmers to reconnect.

Away from the show ring, Young Farmers were drawing crowds; Marley Lamberton said their tent "was always bustling with people".

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.

More on this story
Related internet links