THE annual Stockton Heath Festival has been cancelled due to safety concerns surrounding the coronavirus outbreak.

Due to take place between July 2 and 5, the celebratory arts and culture event will be postponed until 2021.

In a statement, festival trustees said: "We regret to announce that, given the current uncertainty and concerns for public safety surrounding the coronavirus outbreak, the 2020 Stockton Heath Festival will not take place.

"The organisers would like to say thank you to everyone who has been involved, working hard to prepare for what promised to be another great festival.

"Their time and effort has been greatly appreciated.

"Planning will begin once more after the summer months to make the 2021 festival the best it can be."

A full programme for the festival was due to be officially released, including music, drama, open air theatre, concerts and farmers markets for the whole community to enjoy.

Organisers have assured the public that they will rally together 'with renewed vigour' to plan the 2021 event later this year.