A SERIES of major events in the Malvern calendar have been cancelled due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Countrytastic (April 9), the Malvern Spring Festival (May 7-10), the Three Counties Dog Show (June 4-7) and the Royal Three Counties Show (June 12-14) have all been cancelled.

Three Counties Showground head of shows Diana Walton said: "Following the recent change in Government advice, it is with much regret that we can confirm the cancellation of the following events that were due to take place at Three Counties Showground this year.

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"Whilst we’re devastated to be making this announcement, we wholeheartedly support the Government on this matter.

"We know these events are a calendar highlight for many thousands of people and that our exhibitors, designers and traders spend many months getting ready for the show, but public health and safety has to be our number one priority, for the sake of our staff, visitors and for our wider community.

"The cancellation of our shows will have a big impact on our staff and wider community in many ways.

"With this in mind, and with the uncertainty facing us in the months ahead, it’s more important than ever that we pull together to support the most vulnerable amongst us. We’re currently looking at ways that we as an organisation can get involved in wider community efforts.

"Currently, the cancellation advice only affects CountryTastic, RHS Malvern Spring Festival, Three Counties Championship Dog Show and Royal Three Counties Show.

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"We’re hoping to hold Malvern Autumn Show at the showground as planned. We will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates should the Government advice change.

"We will be in contact with everyone who has purchased tickets to the four cancelled events, along with all our stakeholders within the next 21 days.

"We would like to thank our visitors, exhibitors, sponsors and all who support our shows, and extend our best wishes to everybody at this challenging time.”

The news follows the announcement that schools across the country have been closed "until further notice" as fears over the spread of coronavirus continue.

For the latest news and updates on coronavirus and events in Malvern, go to www.malverngazette.co.uk