THE RHS Tatton show is set to go ahead as scheduled in July, as others across the country fall victim to coronavirus.

The Royal Horticultural Society has cancelled shows up to the end of June, including the Chelsea Flower Show for the first time since the Second World War.

A spokesman said that it hoped events later in the year could go ahead, subject to updated government advice on Covid-19.

Full refunds will be offered for cancelled events.

Sue Biggs, RHS director general, said: “In these unprecedented challenging times we have carefully followed Government advice and made difficult, responsible decisions with the health and safety of people at the foremost of our minds.

“Our RHS Shows are vitally important platforms for the horticultural industry, and we are especially aware of the impact of cancelling these events on everyone involved.

"We will be doing all we can to help growers and nurseries to sell the plants they will have grown for the cancelled Shows.

"As with everyone, we have no crystal ball, but for the time being we are planning our Summer Flower Shows and our Gardens remain open, as they are large outside spaces where people can escape in open space and benefit from some tranquillity and beauty, surrounded by nature – all things that are much needed during these unsettling times.

“Things of course may change, but whatever decisions we make, safety will be utmost in our mind and we will, like the rest of the world, be monitoring the situation closely.”

RHS Gardens remain open, although school trips are cancelled.

RHS Flower Show Tatton Park takes place between July 22 and 26.