A POPULAR jazz festival which attracts visitors to the area has been cancelled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Jazz Jurassica, which had been due to take place in May, has been called off.

The organisers of the Lyme Regis festival said it was a 'difficult decision' but one that was inevitable after recent developments.

A Jazz Jurassica spokesman said: "We were hoping that we might be able to go ahead as the festival is still several weeks away but recent developments have made cancellation inevitable.

"We are very sorry to disappoint our many loyal customers and supporters and deprive many wonderful performers of the opportunity to do what they do best – make great music.

"We will fully refund all tickets. If you bought tickets online this will happen automatically within the next 10 working days."

If you booked tickets through Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, staff will contact you shortly - it is not necessary to get in contact with them to request a refund.

The spokesman added: "Because of the volume of work involved we appreciate your patience and understanding at this difficult time.

"We will be back next year, Friday, May 28 - Monday, May 31, and hope you’ll all join us then.

"In the meantime take care of each other and keep safe."

Jazz Jurassica celebrates the best jazz music and musicians. Last year's event attracted record crowds as audiences packed venues and the seafront for the festival's four-day musical extravaganza