THE Bucks County Show has been cancelled because of foot and mouth restrictions.

The show, one of the biggest of its kind in Britain, was due to be held on August 30.

But after careful consideration by the board of management, the show was scrapped for this year.

Show secretary Jenny Baker said it was a tough decision to cancel the show, which was to be held near Aylesbury, but the board had a duty to the farming community.

She said: "We're very disappointed but we have to be seen to be supporting our farmers. We are an agricultural show."

The board had no guarantee the disease would be eradicated by show day or that movement restrictions would be lifted in time.

One option would have been to run the show without livestock but Mrs Baker said this option would not be viable.

She said: "A lot of the stalls are agricultural. It's primarily for the farmers and to promote farming and the rural crafts."

Local farmer Bob Uglow, of Chinnor Road, Bledlow, was disappointed about the cancellation but agreed it was the right decision to take.

He said: "I think it's very prudent at this stage. We can't be too careful."

Mr Uglow added: "The date is a long way forward but the organisers have to take a decision and all the other shows so far have been cancelled."

Mrs Baker said the show normally brings out the best of farming, which is why it was such a shame to have to cancel it.

Mr Uglow agreed and said: "It's really a great event for local farmers."

Organisers are now looking forward to creating a fun family day out at next year's show on August 29, 2002.