THE future of many agricultural shows in the region could be threatened under Government tax changes.

The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) is lobbying against the proposal to levy taxes of up to £50,000 as part of a overhaul of the licensing system.

Taxes would apply to any public entertainment event attracting more than 6,000 people, which involves providing temporary accommodation and serving alcohol.

The minimum tax would be £5,000 but the figure would rise, depending on the attendance.

Money raised through the levy would go to the local council to cover the costs of health and safety checks by its officers.

CLA regional director Dorothy Fairburn said: "These proposals would also hit point-to-point meetings, events vital to the viability of many historic homes open to the public such as outdoor music concerts, as well as many other country and charity fundraising events.

"The agricultural show is a traditional rural community event attracting visitors from the cities, too.

"Many shows are struggling to make financial ends meet and increasingly dependant on voluntary helpers and sponsorship.

"Some of the smaller shows have disappeared from the calendar altogether.

"These shows are a vital way of demonstrating the importance of farming and the rural economy to a wider audience as well as being the social highlight of the year for many who live in the countryside.

"We shall fight these potentially damaging proposals."

The proposals by Tessa Jowell, the Culture Secretary, are laid out in a paper which has been circulated for consultation.

Joining the CLA in the campaign will be the National Trust, the Historic Houses Association, the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions and the Visitor Attractions Forum.