The 2010 Royal Highland Show has set a new attendance record of 187,644 - an increase of more than 11,000 on last year’s record of 176,522.
The show, which closed on Sunday night, recorded increased visitor numbers on all four days including an all time daily high of 57,754 on Saturday.
At the final show press conference held on Sunday at 12 o’clock, Show Manager David Dunsmuir said: “We are absolutely thrilled with these figures. Although the fine weather and a focussed publicity campaign were obvious influences, there is more to it than that. Our core aim is to showcase the farming and food industry and by combining that with an associated programme of entertainment and activity, we have a formula that is obviously appealing to both our specialist audience and the general public.
“Staging an event of this magnitude takes a huge effort. Exhibitors, trade organisations and staff all played their part and deserve a pat on the back, but major thanks go to the public who came in their droves.”
Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Richard Lochhead commented: “This has undoubtedly been one of the most successful Royal Highland Shows of all time. The food and farming sectors appear to be weathering the recession better than many other industries and there has been a real feel good factor this year.
“The visits from the EU Agriculture Commissioner and Chairman of the European Parliament’s Agricultural Committee speak volumes for Scotland’s reputation as a land of food and drink. It proves beyond doubt that we are driving forward the debate on CAP and influencing and shaping change.”
Individual daily attendances were as follows (2009 figures in parentheses):
- Thursday 39,891 (38,506)
- Friday 47,885 (47,714)
- Saturday 57,754 (51,307)
- Sunday 42,114 (38,995)
The new future developments of the showground, were also discussed in some detail at the final press conference. The plans of the new developments were shown in the foyer of the Highland Hall, throughout the Show. Also discussed was the retiral of the chief executive Ray J. Jones.
The 2011 Royal Highland Show will be held on June 23 -26. The show, at the Royal Highland Centre, Ingliston, will once again be sponsored by The Royal Bank of Scotland who last week announced a new five year sponsorship package.