THE organisers of the Royal Cheshire County Show say they remain optimistic in the face of the disappointment of Monday's HS2 route announcement.

The Government's preferred Phase 2b route - linking Crewe to Manchester Piccadilly - will cut through the Tabley showgrounds, with construction expected to begin within three years.

Show organisers have expressed disappointment at the track plans, which will rise around six metres above ground through the site, but have reassured visitors that 'the show will go on'.

Show chairman Tony Garnett said: “We are proud to be in possession of one of the finest greenfield show grounds in the country and will not allow this news to cast a shadow over the show.

"The show has faced much bigger setbacks during its 175-year history and has come through bigger and better than ever. This will be no exception.”

With three more shows to plan before construction of the high speed railway is scheduled to commence, the Cheshire Agricultural Society - which organises the event - has reassured show supporters that it is 'business as usual'.

Planning for the 2018 show is already well underway.

Nigel Evans, executive director of the show, said: “Rest assured that the society will be taking every available course of action to secure the best possible outcome for our beloved show, to ensure that it continues to be enjoyed by the many thousands of visitors, competitors and trade exhibitors now and for future generations to come.”

The show moved to Tabley in 1990, and agreed a new 30-year lease of the site from the Crown Estate in 2015.

HS2 will reduce Manchester to London journey times by almost half, to 67 minutes. Phase 2b is set to commence operation in 2033.