The more than 800-year long Ashby Statutes tradition is being kept alive this year despite the cancellation of the popular annual fair due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pat Collins Funfair, North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) and Ashby de la Zouch Town Council mutually agreed last month that the event could not safely go ahead on safety grounds.

However, those involved have been working together so that there will be a small, symbolic presence within the town to allow the continuity of the Statutes into its 802nd year in 2021.

A small children's fair ride will be present in Brook Street, Ashby from today (Fri) until Tuesday (22 Sept) with full Covid-safe measures in place.

Operating times for the ride are:

· Today: 2pm to 5pm

· Sunday (20 Sept): not operational

· Tuesday (22 Sept): 2pm to 5pm

Anthony Harris of Pat Collins Funfair said: "Cancelling this year's event was a really difficult decision but it is the right one for the community.

"The Statutes is more than just a fair, it's a tradition, and it was really important that we keep that tradition going.

"NWLDC and Ashby Town Council were both in full agreement and it's great we'll have this small and safe presence in the town for the next few days.

"We cannot wait to return with the full Ashby Statutes celebration in 2021."

Cllr Virge Richichi, Chairman of NWLDC, said: "It was really important to us that we supported the organisers in having a presence within Ashby over the next few days, allowing the continuation of this centuries-old tradition.

"Cancelling this year's event is certainly the right decision for our communities but we're already looking ahead to 2021 where we all hope Ashby Statutes can return in full."

Cllr Graham Allman, Mayor of Ashby, said: "Who doesn't get excited at the fair coming to town? In particular Ashby Statutes.

"That great annual event which arrives early autumn and has done so for 800 years, with the exception of the two World Wars.

"Its arrival was at that point seen as the country 'getting back to normal'.

"Let us hope and pray that post pandemic that it is seen in the same vein.

"Our sincere thanks go out to The Harris Family for their efforts on behalf of Ashby Town Council and the community."