Coronavirus: Music festival called off in Cumbria

A popular music festival in Cumbria has been cancelled amid coronavirus fears.

In an announcement released on Monday, organisers of Ireby Festival said this year's event has now been called off due to Public Health concerns.

The event in May is one of the county's favourites, with more than 70% of this year's tickets already sold.

Organisers have advised those who planned to go to the festival to keep hold of their ticket until next year's event in May 2021, or apply for a refund.

A statement was released by the festival coordinators, it read: " In the current climate of growing Public Health concern relating to COVID19 (Coronavirus), against which there is no insurance available, we are mindful of the potential health and financial implications.

"Whilst having reached 70% ticket sales, with coronavirus concerns and the risk of future Government measures; that we are unable to insure the coronavirus risk, and guarantee income, we are unable to continue with the Ireby Festival in 2020.

"We would like to offer our sincere thanks to everyone who has supported our endeavour to retain the festival in 2020.

"As well as a full refund being available, we would like to offer all ticket holders and participants the opportunity to retain their tickets and join us for Ireby Festival 2021."

The news comes just days after the Marmalade Festival in Cumbria was called off.

The event, at Dalemain near Penrith, normally sees about 3,000 jars entered from more than 40 countries across the world, including Canada, Japan, Australia and Mexico.

It was scheduled to take place on the weekend of the 14/15 March but was cancelled by organisers.

A spokesperson of the Maramlade Festival tweeted: "To everyone who entered, do not worry - the judging has taken place and the winners will be announced on our website on 14 March. All certificates and feedback forms will be posted to you as usual."