Findon Sheep Fair cancelled for 2nd time in 200 years, but small ceremony to protect 739-year-old tradition

The staple of the autumn, which runs on the second weekend of September every year, has been called off for the first time since the 2001 foot and mouth epidemic and for just the second time in more than 200 years.

In a statement, the fair's chairman Simon Stace said: "The safety and welfare of our visitors, volunteers, exhibitors, staff, and traders have been at the forefront of this decision as is that of the residents of Findon Village itself. With the requirements of social distancing measures as they are and uncertainty regarding mass gatherings we felt it was impossible to hold a safe show of the same quality and standard that members of the community know and love. Regrettably the decision will also impact our ability to make the donations to worthy village causes that we have in previous years.

"We take this opportunity to thank all within the NHS, those key workers and many unspoken heros who continue to work incredibly hard to help the country to tackle COVID-19. We must help them as much as we can, ensuring we are not causing even more of a strain on all services.

"On behalf of the committee, I would like to thank you all for the support you have given us over the years, and I am also incredibly grateful to our supporters, volunteers, without whom the show would not take place. Preparations are now in place for our 2021 show and on behalf of everyone at the show – dancing sheep and all, I look forward to welcoming you then.

"Together, we will get through these difficult times – keep safe and take care."

While the fair has operated in its current for for more than 200 years, its traditions stretch back to 1261 when a charter was granted giving permission for a sheep fair to take place on Nepcote Green on the second weekend of September every year.

Organisers have been careful not to let the charter slip for the 739 years of its existence and this time around will be no different.

A small ceremony will take place where the fair will be 'opened' by some poles being placed in the ground, declared open and then immediately closed.

Graham Langford has provided many of the sheep for the fair for more than 15 years from his local farm and, together with other farmers from the area, has seen more than 300 sheep on display at the fair.

He will be bringing four sheep this time around to maintain the tradition of the sheep fair for the small ceremony.