ONE of Ledbury's most popular events has again had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Ledbury Carnival, which was also cancelled in 2020, has again fallen victim to the crisis, though organisers are hoping for a smaller family event to go ahead.

Johnny Chan, from the Ledbury Carnival Association, said: "The Carnival Committee has met recently to consider plans for this year.

"Although the Government’s gradual relaxation of restrictions is a very welcome development there are still uncertainties ruling out the usual large-scale event.

"In addition, the Carnival Committee membership is currently very small, further limiting what we are able to undertake.

"The Committee, are however, planning to hold a smaller family carnival event, on the afternoon of August Bank Holiday Monday, in St Katherine’s Car Park, subject to restrictions.

"A significant factor in all of this taking place is the need for additional Committee Members to arrange the event and more volunteers to provide support on the Day itself.

"Previous experience in organising such events is not essential but further skills would be extremely welcome on the Committee; we are a very supportive group with everyone pulling together.

"If you would like to know more, please contact the Secretary on 01531 635129.

"A further statement will be made during the next few weeks."

The carnival is the largest single day event on Ledbury’s annual calender, usually attracting crowds of up to 10,000 people.

Mayor of Ledbury, Cllr Daniel Vesma, said the cancellation was a real blow to the town, but that safety was the most important consideration.

He said: "I am, of course, very disappointed to hear that COVID has claimed another important event in Ledbury’s calendar.

"The cancellation will be a blow to the whole town, and especially the volunteers who put so much into the organisation and smooth running of this event.

"Even with case rates as low as they are, it is important that we not become complacent if want to continue to keep our loved ones safe."

This means the full carnival now has not been held since 2019, when the town's streets were last filled with the sights and sounds of the carnival.