Bridport Folk Festival is the latest event in the town’s calendar to be cancelled or postponed.

Despite hopes and optimism, organisers have announced the festival in July will not go ahead this year.

Festival director Chris Deacon said: “Whilst we continued to maintain our planning and organisation, current indicators are that such an event over three days is neither feasible or advisable. Festivals across the country are taking similar decisions, which I personally believe is the right one.

“It is apparent that with the best will in the world and even conforming to the protocols of hygienic cleansing, advisory notifications and social distancing, some members of the public are intent on ignoring them and I do not wish to accommodate such people who may widen the spread of the virus to our townspeople and visitors.

“It is beginning to become apparent that any form of festival is unlikely this year. However, on the positive side, we have plans well in hand and are looking forward to providing a sensational Bridport Folk Festival in July 2021.

“Thank you to all our supporters, sponsors and fantastic volunteers, but particularly to our performers, musicians and dancers.”

The team is considering hosting a ‘celebratory post Covid-19 concert’ in the autumn should guidance and advice allow and details, along with information about the 2021 festival, can be found at bridportfolkfestival.com