Highland show disease move fears

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Scotland's summer agricultural shows are in jeopardy because of plans to introduce new animal disease control regulations, it has been claimed.

The backers of events including the Royal Highland Show have met to discuss their concerns over the proposals.

Experts at the Scottish Executive's Environment and Rural Affairs Department think the events should be covered by stricter bio-security rules.

Show officials believe the costs would endanger the future of many events.

Stock judging

About 160 organisers got together in Edinburgh to try to renew representations to the executive.

Along with the four-day Royal Highland Show, on the outskirts of Edinburgh, there are many smaller gatherings throughout Scotland.

Most are set up by volunteers and feature attractions such as displays of new machinery and stock judging.

They are considered a crucial link between country communities and the public.

Talks between the two parties are continuing.