BIRDFAIR 2020, which was to have been held at Rutland Water in August this year, has been scrapped in the wake of the coronavirus situation. Below is today's statement issued by the organisers.
It is with heavy hearts that, after 31 successful years during which over £5million for nature conservation has been raised, we have made the difficult decision not to hold Birdfair 2020.
This event, which was the first of its kind and the largest internationally, raises funds and awareness for international nature conservation from the creation of new national parks to saving species from the threat of extinction.
Such incredible achievements are only possible thanks to the dedication of all those involved, including our sponsors, partners, exhibitors, speakers, visitors and the amazing 350+ volunteers.
Even if public gatherings were to be given permission to go ahead later in the summer, we do not feel we could maintain our duty of care during this Covid-19 crisis, and delaying our decision further would only increase costs which would be difficult for Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust to bear.
But we are determined that we will be back for Birdfair 2021!
We are already planning a new direction for the event, offering the 24,000 people who visit each year different ways of exploring how they can engage with wildlife and nature conservation, both within the UK and worldwide.
We’ll be sharing how these ideas are developing over the course of the coming months.
In the meantime, we are exploring the possibility of holding a Digital Birdfair - a chance to showcase speakers and discussions online.
We hope to engage our existing supporters and find new audiences through this innovative communication channel.
Make sure you keep in contact with us to find out what’s happening and when.
Please check our website, Facebook and Twitter pages to keep yourself informed.
Birdfair will be back!
In the meantime, we send our very best wishes to our sponsors, exhibitors, contractors, volunteers and visitors - Take Care and Stay Safe!
The Birdfair Team
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