IT has been confirmed that for the second year running the popular Orsett Show will not be taking place.

Despite the significant relaxation in Covid-19 restrictions and the government Covid roadmap which suggests most things will return to 'normal' by the end of June the show organisers still do not have the confidence to proceed with the show, planned for the first weekend in September.

A statement from the Orsett Horticultural & Agricultural Society says: "It is with deep regret and sadness that we have to announce that this year's show, due to be held on Saturday, 4 September 2021, has been cancelled.

"The Society has been monitoring the ongoing Covid pandemic and hoped that with the successful vaccination programme it may have been possible to have held this year's show but with the uncertainty surrounding the restrictions that will be in place come September and with the need for us to book services and contractors now for this year's show, the organising committee felt there was no alternative than to cancel this year's show and focus on having a fantastic 2022 Show.

"This was an extremely difficult decision for us to make, particularly as it had not been possible to hold the 2020 show but our top priority is the health and safety of everyone attending and working at the show whilst ensuring that the Society does not suffer significant financial losses.

"We would like to thank all our visitors, sponsors, traders, exhibitors and service providers for their support over the years and we sincerely hope they will be able to be part of our 2022 show.

"As you can imagine, this is a great disappointment for everyone involved with organising the show but we look forward to welcoming you to our 2022 show on Saturday, 3September."

Paul Dale from the Port of Tilbury, the main sponsors of the show, said "Cancelling the show will be very disappointing for many people, but safety, wellbeing and preservation of such a historic show is paramount and difficult decisions have to be made.

"l want to thank the committee and the dedicated supporters for all their hard work exploring various options for the show this year, I hope it will be third time lucky next year when this great family day out will be back on the Thurrock calendar again."