The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society has announced that it has "no other option" but to cancel all events scheduled for May and June due to he coronavirus pandemic.

Events planned to take place in Llanelwedd include the Royal Welsh Grassland Event on May 7, and the Smallholding & Countryside Festival on May 16 and 17.

Steve Hughson, chief executive, said: "The Society is deeply disappointed that we have had to make the difficult decision to cancel these important Society events. However, as a responsible event organiser, we fully understand the need to work across the industry to minimise the spread of this pandemic."

With the Government advising against attending mass gatherings and further action relating to social distancing and self-isolation, RWAS said it felt there was "no other option".

On Thursday morning, RWAS said it is monitoring the situation closely as it develops ahead of one of Europe's largest agricultural shows - the Royal Welsh Show - which is planned to take place between July 20 to 23.

Matthew Mackinnon, RWAS spokesperson, said: "The Society appreciates the disruption and disappointment that will be caused, but the absolute priority must lie with the well-being of our supporters and the protection of public health in this time of unprecedented uncertainty.

"The Society would like to thank our members, traders, exhibitors, competitors, sponsors and all stakeholders for their understanding and patience during this period of uncertainty. We will keep you fully informed regarding any further developments in what is an unprecedented situation."

Any one who has urgent questions or queries can contact the Society by e-mail: requests@rwas.co.uk