The UK event industry has become the latest victim of the
foot-and-mouth crisis that has so far cost the country more than pounds
9bn.
Although the farming community has borne the brunt of the devastating
disease, the impact is being felt far wider. Following the postponement
of last month's Cheltenham National Hunt Festival, event organisers
around the country are suffering more cancellations with a wide range of
activities facing the axe.
The foot-and-mouth outbreak has led to the cancellation of the
Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials, due to be held on 3-6 May.
'This is a very sad day,' Badminton event director Hugh Thomas said.
'We feel for the riders, spectators and the trade stands which were so
much looking forward to coming here, but we completely understand and
support the view that any risk of spreading this awful disease is
unacceptable.'
Corporate events specialist Business Pursuits has already had to
postpone one sizeable event scheduled for early June and is closely
monitoring the regional spread of the disease.
Business Pursuits marketing director Sam Gill said: 'We're confident the
crisis will remain focused on the existing cluster areas and that many
venues in non-restricted areas will be able to reopen their doors for
business in time for the summer season.'
The annual Crufts Dog Show has also been cancelled. The organisers are
insured but they have not evaluated the losses as yet. The event was
expected to attract about 115,000 visitors. The show, which uses five
halls, is the sixth largest show at the NEC.