Ashby de la Zouch Town Council leader Councillor John Coxon has expressed disappointment at the news that a number of events in the town have either been cancelled or postponed in the light of the latest announcements on the Coronavirus pandemic.

The pandemic has seen a series of events in the town having to be called off in what was to have been a major year for the town.

Councillor Coxon said: "Following official government advice regarding social distancing to contain the spread of Covid-19 and the potential stopping of mass gatherings it is with great regret that Ashby de la Zouch Town Council has made the difficult decision to cancel some of its events for this year.

"We have also received confirmation of cancellation from other event organisers who were due to bring events to the town.

"The following events have now been either cancelled or postponed.

"We will publish updates as and when we receive them:

• Ashby Big Tidy Up 4th April;The Mayor's Civic Service 19th April

• The Mayor's Civic Dinner 2nd May

• Ashby de la Zouch Arts Festival 8th - 10th May

• VE Day 75th Anniversary Picnic in the Park 8th May;Food Gusto Ashby Food & Drink Festival 23rd - 24th May

• Fake Festival 30th May

• Pithiviers Twinning 60th Anniversary visit 4th - 8th June

• Ashby Open Gardens 13th - 14th June

• Realfest Carnival 2020 20th June. 

"In light of recent events surrounding the spread of Covid-19 we must ensure that public safety remains our priority.

"Whilst it is deeply regrettable having to cancel our events during these uncertain times, we feel this is the right, and only, course of action to take.

"We wish you all well, please stay safe."