Hundreds of people from across the country have signed-up to the first ever digital Royal Welsh Show just 24 hours after the registration website was launched.

The Royal Welsh Agricultural Society officially launched the virtual event on Wednesday, July 1, with a brand new registration platform on their website for when the event takes place during the virtual show week from July 20 to 23.

The first virtual show is supported by NatWest Cymru and hosted by Business News Wales.

Kevin Morgan, NatWest Cymru Board, said this year's landmark digital event is "a pioneering opportunity to engage the event to a new audience", while managing director of Business News Wales Mark Powney added that it has provided the show with an opportunity to "accelerate its own digital journey into future shows".

The Society says it is "excited" to showcase a week-long programme of educational and entertainment sessions throughout each day as well as stakeholders holding live question and answer sessions for everyone to participate.

Steve Hughson, Chief Executive said, “Set against a background of disappointment and challenge around the cancellation of all events on the Showground to date, we continue to look forward with a commitment to secure the future of the Society and its events. We are delighted to launch our virtual Show, which will allow the opportunity for everyone to enjoy some of the highlights enjoyed by thousands every year. I am grateful to NatWest Cymru who has stepped in to support this exciting new venture and we look forward to continuing our excellent relationship in the future.”

Alongside the virtual event, the Society have launched a campaign #20in20 #20mewn20 to raise £20,000 in 20 days in the lead up to the 2020 virtual show, with the money raised being split between the following charities; The DPJ Foundation, Tir Dewi and The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI) to recognise the importance of support and raise the awareness of mental health in the agricultural industry. If you would like to take part visit our Facebook page with the most up to date information or to give a donation visit the JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/royal-welsh

Today (Friday, July 3) see’s the launch of a novelty competition ‘The Best Team of Five’ which can include anything from five fishing rods to five tractors and prizes will be awarded to the top three entries which will be judged by a public vote. To get involved send your pictures to marketing@rwas.co.uk or use the following hashtags on social media #YSioe2020 #The2020Show.

Anyone who would like to register for receiving updates and notifications or to read more information about the event, can go online at https://rwas.wales/