THE Wokingham Lion's Club has revealed that it has decided to cancel this year's scheduled May Fayre.

The organisation broke the news on Friday, after it was decided the group would not go ahead with Wokingham's 26th annual fayre, amid coronavirus concerns for welfare.

Ian Grange, organiser of the May Fayre, said: “Our primary concern is for the health and safety of the public. We greatly regret having to cancel our biggest fund-raising event of the year.

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"We had hoped to run an event that not only supported local charities and community groups, but also provided a showcase for local talent on our stages and for local businesses.

"We will investigate the possibility of remounting the Fayre later in the year, if the situation improves.

"Failing that, we look forward to welcoming everyone to next year’s event, currently scheduled for Bank Holiday Monday 3rd May, 2021.

"We would like to thank the Wokingham Town Council, all of our sponsors, local charities, and community groups for their tremendous support.

"We hope to contribute to our named beneficiaries, Thames Valley Air Ambulance and JAC in a Box, later this year, and/or following the 2021 May Fayre event."

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The event was intended to coincide with the 75th anniversary of VE day, raising funds for multiple charities and celebrating the town's culture.

President Lyn Baily said: “I’d like to thank the community for their support for this event, both this year and in the past.

"Our efforts will continue for future events, and all the other things we do to support local people, both now and in the future."