Suffolk Show organisers are launching what is thought to be the first interactive app for an agricultural event of its kind in England.
The launch of the new app, was celebrated at the home of the show, Trinity Park, Ipswich, on Thursday, April 26. It was created through a collaboration between BT, West Suffolk College and the Suffolk Agricultural Association and is set to be available to download on Tuesday, May 1.
Smart Networked Environments, a member of Innovation Martlesham Business Club, developed it with funding from Suffolk County Council.
Those behind the initiative hope it will not only be a valuable resource for show-goers, but also highlight the importance of technology in everyday life and inspire the county’s young people to develop technical skills.
The fully interactive, location-aware, free-to-download mobile app features information and ideas to help visitors plan their day, including a detailed map, ring timetables, information on trade stands, and public transport timetables.
App users can also take part in a fun interactive treasure trail, created by Chronicle Storytelling, a member of the Innovation Martlesham Business Club, which features seven interactive points where visitors can learn more about a specific display. It is themed around ‘looking back, looking forward’ and those who complete the trail, either with the app or using a paper version, will be entered into a prize draw.
Show director Bee Kemball said: “We are thrilled to launch our first ever show app for visitors. There is so much to see and do at the show, we hope the app will make planning and enjoying the day easier.
“It has been great working so closely with our partners to develop the concept of the app and be able to offer these exciting interactive features to our visitors.”
Jonathan Legh-Smith of communications giant BT said they were “hugely excited” about the project, and “absolutely confident” about it. “Really it was about starting to provide a presence at the show as a window onto the type of activities we do at Adastral Park (in Ipswich).”
This year’s show will feature a BT Marquee for the first time, showcasing innovative technology.
For Suffolk Show tickets, go to www.suffolkshow.co.uk or call 01473 707117.
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