THE LEIGH Folk Festival 2020 have announced the cancellation of this year's festival in a bid to contain the spread of Covid-19.

It is the first time in 29 years the festival - the largest of its kind in Europe which attracts thousands of people across its four day programme - will not take place.

A spokeman for the group issued a statement yesterday which said: "It is with a heavy heart, but probably of no surprise, that for the first time in 29 years we have to announce the cancellation of this year's Leigh Folk Festival.

"These are extraordinary times, and our absolute priority is to ensure the safety of our attendees, volunteers, artists and suppliers and to contain the spread of Covid-19.

"We've spent nearly three decades bringing the community together through the arts, and we encourage everyone to continue to remain united and look after each other. We will work to reschedule our ticketed events (Will Varley and Hal Cruttenden) for later in the year.

"All tickets will remain valid, or if the new dates are not suitable you can request a refund. Information on this will be sent from your ticket vendor.

"We also hope to share a number of additional one-off events later in the year in place of the full festival. We will return, and until then, stay home, enjoy time with your loved ones and stay healthy.

"We are grateful for your continued support over this difficult period. Please remember we are a charity, completely run by volunteers, and if you are able to support us at this time, head to our website where you can make a donation to ensure we are able to return.

"From all the team at Leigh Folk Festival."

For updates visit leighfolkfestival.com