Black Isle Show near Muir of Ord embraces digital technology with launch of new app for smartphones
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THE largest agricultural show in the north of Scotland will also become the smartest this year as it launches a dedicated app for downloading onto smartphones.
The Black Isle Show, which is held at the Mannsfield Showground near Muir of Ord on the first Thursday in August every year, commissioned the app which will debut at this year’s show on 31 July and 1 August and is thought to be the first event of its type in Scotland to have a smartphone companion.
Proving age is no barrier to technology, the 182-year-old event will provide up to the minute news and alerts, a full programme listing, a showground map, frequently asked questions and a list of trade stands.
Secretary Rod Mackenzie said: “The Black Isle Show has a long history, but that doesn’t mean it’s set in its ways. The show element is a staple of the agricultural community, but it’s also a bustling family event, and there’s a lot going on. We want to make sure no-one misses anything.
“More than 80 per cent of the population carry smartphones and we thought creating an app would be a great way to keep people informed on the day of what’s going on, and provide easy access to information for the thousands of people who descend on the show.
“The PA system we use is ideal for commentary in the main ring, but it doesn’t stretch around the whole park. The app allows us to provide up-to-the-minute accurate information for visitors.
“It will allow us to post current information about times and locations, and send alerts to visitors to highlight key events, such as the main attraction which this year is Broke FMX, a motorcycle stunt team.”
The app is free of charge and is available now on iOS and Android by searching for ‘Black Isle Show’.
