Okehampton Show has made a decision not to proceed with some livestock classes as bluetongue cases rise in Devon.

Selina Barrow, show manager, confirmed that cattle, sheep, dairy goat and pygmy goat classes will not go ahead at the show on Thursday, August 13.

Classes for pigs, poultry and horses are unaffected – and Selina urged the public to come along and show support.

The update follows a detailed discussion by the Okehampton Show organisers with their veterinary team.

Devon has 64 cases out of a total of 134 across England and Wales recorded since July 10.

Selina said: “After detailed discussion with our veterinary team, we have agreed that we cannot proceed with cattle, sheep, dairy goat and pygmy goat classes at this year’s Okehampton Show. This decision has been made with consideration for the health and welfare of livestock.

“We know how challenging this time is for many farmers, including some of our own committee. Please continue to support one another, you are not alone in facing this. We warmly invite visitors to continue to join us at the show, see our pigs, poultry and horses and show our local farming community your support.”

She added that despite this year's challenges, the popular show is poised to be “bigger than ever” with a jam-packed schedule of entertainment, huge machinery giving live demonstrations, delicious food and “our biggest vintage vehicle parade ever”.

The show schedule includes three rings of entertainment, from breathtaking high adrenaline with the amazing Ben Atkinson, to beautiful and delicate falconry. Massive machines will be putting on demonstrations of silage harvesting and live action diggers.

“We have hundreds of stands with everything from ladies’ hats to fine glass craft and country kitchens. The Devon Food Hall is stuffed with the South West's finest selection of food and drinks makers, it’s not to be missed” Selina said. “We still look forward to sharing a fantastic show with you, as many farmers are facing a difficult and uncertain time.”

Bluetongue is a virus which affects ruminants, such as cattle, sheep, goats and deer, and camelids, such as alpacas and llamas.It is spread by biting midges. It does not affect people or food safety. Meat and milk are still safe to eat and drink.

In animals, bluetongue ‘can cause fever, crusting and ulcers around muzzle area, swollen head, salivating and lameness’ and severe cases can, sadly, lead to death. These kinds of challenges make it even more important to support the local agricultural sector.

The show is at Stoney Park Showground (EX20 1SW) a short distance from Okehampton and runs from 9am to 5pm.

Under 16 go free with a paying adult, Dogs on a lead are welcome – and can join in with the dog show. There’s also plenty of parking and a shuttle bus from Okehampton train station, that takes you right to the showground.