Farming events and shows due to take place in Pembrokeshire in the coming weeks are being reviewed and rescheduled as organisations take action to ease the impact of coronavirus.

While individual show societies have yet to announce their decisions on the calendar of agricultural shows, it is looking increasingly unlikely that they will go ahead due to the measures now in place to slow the spread of the virus.

More immediately, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society, announced on Thursday (March 19) the cancellation of the Royal Welsh Grassland Event on May 7 and the Smallholding & Countryside Festival on May 16 and 17.

RWAS chief executive Steve Hughson said that with the Government advising against attending mass gatherings, the society felt there was “no other option’’ but to cancel.

“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,’’ he insisted.

A decision is awaited on the future of the Royal Welsh Show in July.

“We are continuing to closely monitor the situation as it develops ahead of the Royal Welsh Show which is planned for July 20-23,’’ said Mr Hughson.

“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.’’

Mr Hughson said there would be further updates during what is an “unprecedented situation’’.

Organisers of other farm events due to be held over the coming months are keeping a watchful eye on the virus situation and urging people to follow advice.

Auction marts in west Wales are continuing to operate as normal until government advice suggests otherwise.

BJP Marts Ltd said it was “business as usual’’ at Carmarthen, Haverfordwest and Llandeilo marts since the Livestock Auctioneers Association had received no reports of any concerns relating to coronavirus.

“We are a vital element in the food supply chain and must be responsible businesses,’’ said a spokesperson for the company.

But attendance at any market is restricted to clients conducting business only – onlookers and the general public are asked not to attend.

JJ Morris, however, has cancelled its March 28 machinery sale at Whitland mart ground.

Many YFC events have been cancelled – an announcement is expected on the rescheduling of the annual YFC rally in Haverfordwest.

And in the meantime there is huge disappointment for Llysyfran YFC as members were due to compete at NFYFC drama finals in April.