Several of Banbury’s popular annual events cancelled amid coronavirus concerns

Banbury Town Council has been forced to cancel the Taste of Spring Food Festival planned for Sunday April 19 and the VE Day celebrations scheduled for Sunday May 10.

Other measures for the safety of staff and public have also been introduced.

Leader of the council Kieron Mallon said: “We have to heed warnings that the virus situation will get worse over the coming weeks and months.

“It is better for everyone involved that the decision to cancel is taken earlier rather than later. We will continue to monitor the situation and look at other planned events as they become due.”

The council has also imposed restrictions on town hall access and has cancelled all town hall hirings.

Cllr Mallon added: “Cancelling events isn’t something the council wants to do but we are in unknown territory with this virus. We only have to look around the world to see how serious the outbreak could become and we must cut all risks to a minimum.

“Any gathering at which people mingle closely together is a risk and the council has to act responsibly.”

The council has also cancelled the Outdoor Cinema scheduled for May 8 and the Tea Dance scheduled for May 10. However, they hope to reschedule the latter two in due course.

The Banbury Museum has also cancelled its events programme until further notice.

The museum made the following statement on social media: "We apologise for any inconvenience and disappointment caused and will be refunding those who have already booked."