There will be space for more trade stands at Southern Counties in 2003 at the new Royal Berkshire Showground just off the M4 at the junction with the A34. The new venue is likely to attract more exhibitors and many more spectators from the surrounding towns of Swindon, Reading, Oxford and Basingstoke as well as from Newbury itself.

Of course, priority will be given to those stands that have attended the show in the past and application forms will be sent to those companies two weeks before any other applicants. Space is still limited so stands will be accepted strictly on a 'first come, first served' basis.

In the past, Southern Counties show management has been able to be fairly relaxed about late applications, layouts, charity stands and the like. However, Newbury Showground has extensive Health and Safety guidelines as well as much longer lead times for booking and planning than we are used to. There will inevitably be some changes both in the applications forms and the procedures so it important that new companies who would like to attend apply in plenty of time.

Indications of interest that must be in writing should be sent to Angela Cavill, Langham House, Ham Common, Richmond upon Thames, Surrey TW10 7JB, faxed to 020 8940 7711 or e-mailed to scca@davidcavill.co.uk . Those companies who have already applied need not do so again.