Vaccine or negative test result needed for Balmoral Show visitors

By Q Radio News

Anyone going to Northern Ireland's largest agricultural event will have to provide proof they’ve been double vaccinated or produce a negative Covid-19 test result to enter.

This year's Balmoral Show was postponed from May to September because of the pandemic which stopped last year’s show from going ahead at all. 

Organisers claim the vaccine programme has given them confidence that it is "viable" for the show to return next month, however a specific date still has to be agreed. 

In a statement, they said: "There are of course challenges in running an event of this size and we will need to adapt to ensure we can make the show Covid secure.

"The safety and wellbeing of our visitors, exhibitors, stewards, officials and contractors remains the greatest importance.

"The show will be a Covid compliant event and will only go ahead if it is safe to do so.”

It means visitors will have to provide proof they’ve been fully vaccinated with the second administered at least 14 days before the event. 

Alternatively they’ll need to produce a negative lateral flow test taken up to 48 hours before visiting or proof of a Covid diagnosis within the previous 180 days which they have completed their period of self-isolation for.

Negative tests will be required for children aged 11 and over.

A code of conduct has also been drawn up which includes mandatory mask wearing in enclosed spaces, and a recommendation that people wear masks outdoors where it’s difficult to socially distance.

High fives, hugs and contact with people outside attendees' social bubbles are to be avoided. 

The Balmoral Show is the latest event in Northern Ireland to ask for proof of vaccination or a negative test. 

Others include the Belsonic and Custom House Square concerts.