Chief executive of Kent Invicta Chamber

There have been many comments made over the past few weeks about the County Show which was so badly affected by the weather, with a mix of opinions on whether it should have been cancelled knowing the forecast.

Personally, if I had a hat, I would certainly take it off to George Jessel, chairman of the Kent County Agricultural Society, for demonstrating that true British spirit of “the show must go on”.

Despite the heavens opening relentlessly, everything was in place and gates ready to open. But as the rain continued, it made it virtually impossible to park and vehicles had to be turned away.

Visitor numbers are reported to be around 50,000 compared to 67,000 last year.

If you consider the weather over the three-day period, they should be pleased with themselves that visitor numbers were only down by 25% considering the impediments they faced. It certainly was a case of business as usual for the traders and those who were lucky enough to park.

Organising something on the scale of the County Show takes so long in the making, with so many individuals and organisations involved. Is it better to call it off, or put yourself in the lap of the gods and hope for the best?

Many traders rely on the annual opportunity that the show brings to fill their future order books. So in my mind, 50,000 visitors represent a great business opportunity compared to packing up shop and going home.

Roger Moore, the general manager, told me that the society had received numerous messages thanking them for being brave enough to say “the show will go on.” Despite the reported huge losses this year, will the County Show continue next year? Of course it will and Kent residents will once again come out in full support.

I started by taking off my imaginary hat to George Jessel and I will end with a salute to everyone involved in the organisation, those who exhibited and those who braved the weather and visited.