The annual South Tyneside Festival - a summer highlight for tens of thousands of music fans - has been cancelled, organisers have announced.
The three-month summer showcase, which was due to see Will Young and members of Beautiful South top the bill, is the latest big-scale event to fall victim to the coronavirus crisis.
And while the hope is that their performances - part of the festival's Sunday concert series also set to include Shalamar and The Fizz and Ghost singer Ella Henderson - can be rescheduled for next year, it is likely the news will prompt a rush for refunds from those who have bought tickets.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by South Tyneside Council which organises the June to August festival which features a centrepiece parade in South Shields as well as a range of free music sets to entertain the crowds.
The decision was taken in a climate which sees uncertainty continue over much of this year's upcoming entertainment bill and also includes the cancellation of the popular live music events in the town's parks.
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Coun Norman Dick said: “We know how popular the festival is among residents and visitors.
"However, after very careful consideration, the council has had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year’s programme of events due to the uncertainty over when social distancing measures will be lifted.
He added: “We know this will be a huge disappointment to all those involved.
"But we also know you will understand that the safety of all our festival goers, artists, participants and staff are of paramount importance and that this is a necessary measure in line with the Government’s advice to try and limit the spread of coronavirus.”
He said that the event team is working hard behind the scenes with agents, artists and ticket agencies to reschedule as much as possible for 2021, including re-booking the four big concerts.
Tickets already bought will remain valid for next year while those who prefer a refund will find information on how to claim being released "in due course"
The Mayor added: “We would ask people to bear with us as we make the arrangements regarding this and thank everyone for their patience and understanding during these unprecedented times.”
He assured disappointed music lovers that the team will be working to make next year’s programme "the best yet". For upcoming information keep an eye out on the festival website here.
