An annual and much loved street carnival has been cancelled as a result of the coronavirus lockdown.

Harlow Council has decided not to hold its yearly street carnival due to the national health crisis - plans remain to host the celebratory event in 2021.

The carnival was due to take place on Sunday, June 28 however there is currently a restriction on large gatherings in the UK with many events across the country such as Glastonbury and the Grand National being cancelled.

The carnival, which has been running in its current form since 2017 when the town turned 70, is organised over several months and involves a number of different organisations who make up the parade.

Brian Keane, chief executive of Harlow Council, said: “The carnival has become a popular annual event, which brings the whole town together, so this was a difficult decision to make. Our priorities for now are responding to the national coronavirus situation and we just don’t know at this time when large public events will return. The carnival will be back next year and it will be a celebration of the people and groups who are part of our town’s community spirit.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

For more breaking news, local headlines and features, ‘like’ our Facebook page.

We also have a Twitter account: @EppingFGuardian

Follow us to keep up-to-date with news in Epping Forest.