Mindful of the latest Coronavirus public health guidance, the organisers of the 132nd Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show and the Lycetts Festival of Hunting have reached the decision to cancel this popular countryside event, which was due to take place on Wednesday 22nd July 2020.
As with many other major events, the organisers have found that it is impossible to plan safely for this year’s Festival. As well as the obvious limitations on gatherings of large numbers, there is also a concern that hunts will also be unable to put in the enormous effort that is required in the months leading up to the festival in preparing hounds for the show ring, and horses for the inter-hunt relay, whilst also complying with the government guidelines on social distancing, staying at home, and protecting the NHS.
The Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show Society is also conscious to reduce any potential burden that the event might have on the emergency services.
“Since 1878, the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show has been cherished as the annual showcase for the world of hunting and has only ever stopped during wartime,” said Alison Queenborough, Secretary of the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show Society. “This time it’s a global pandemic which is placing huge demands on our public health service. Whilst ‘Peterborough’ exemplifies the history and tradition of hounds, celebrates rural life and is a great social gathering, we do not wish to place unnecessary burden on our public services which must be focussed on the nation’s health and well-being. We are, however, looking at ways in which we can interact remotely with our community in the coming weeks and months, and contribute towards the social support network that the hunting community is so well known for during these difficult times.”
Angus Keate, chairman of Lycetts said: “We completely understand why the Lycetts Festival of Hunting will not be taking place this year and appreciate the reasons behind it. Keeping our staff safe and our clients well looked after is especially important at this time and it is right we are all focused on that. Lycetts is very much open for business and hope you’ll feel able to give us a call if we can be of any assistance with your insurance and financial services needs.”
The Festival organisers have already advised their valued members, sponsors, trade stand exhibitors, advertisers and contractors of the cancellation, and thank all those who support the event each year. Attention will now turn to the event returning in 2021 and the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show Society and Lycetts Festival of Hunting look forward to seeing everyone there.
