One of Warwick's biggest events of the year cancelled due to coronavirus outbreak

One of Warwick's biggest events of the year has been cancelled due to concerns about the coronavirus outbreak.

Every year thousands of people flock to Warwick town centre in May for the annual Warwick Food Festival.

However due to concerns about the coronavirus outbreak the organisers, CJ's Events Warwickshire, have decided to cancel the event.

Jamie Walker of CJ's Events Warwickshire said: "It is with huge heavy hearts and much sadness that we must announce that the 2020 event, which was due to take place on May 24 has been cancelled.

"COVID-19 is a very fast moving and complex situation, the health, safety and welfare of our team, exhibitors, contractors and visitors must be taken seriously during this crisis.

"We have been advised by local government that no events which attract mass gatherings should take place within Warwick District within the next 12-week period. Warwick Food Festival falls within this time frame.

"The team have put a great deal of time, resource and energy into organising and promoting this year's Warwick Food Festival which was due to have a number of exciting changes and it is a massive blow for us.

"We know this cancellation will be a huge disappointment to our exhibitors and thousands of visitors, and we sincerely apologise, but this is now totally out of our hands."

Despite having to cancel the May event, the organisers are hopeful their winter food festival due to take place in Warwick in November will go ahead as planned.

Jamie added: "Warwick’s Winter Food Festival is due to take place on Sunday November 22 and all exhibitors have been contacted regarding their booking being carried over to this date.

"Information of the Winter Food Festival will be announced in the coming months. CJ’s Events Warwickshire have confirmed the weekly Warwick and Kenilworth markets are due to take place as normal at present, however as it’s a fast-moving situation, so this may change at any time."

A dedicated page on the operators website has been set up to keep everyone updated on their markets and special events over the coming months: www.cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk/COVID-19