Wiltshire’s largest annual music festival has been cancelled.

WOMAD organisers say they are unable to proceed with the festival at Charlton Park, Malmesbury, from July 23 to 26.

A statement read: “Following a meeting with the licensing authority, combined emergency services and government advice on halting the spread of Covid-19,  the festival’s goal of protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of the whole WOMAD community, the festival is unable to proceed this year.”

WOMAD founder Peter Gabriel said: “Like many others, we have been hoping, waiting and watching the Coronavirus situation.  Finally, we have been told we will not be allowed to hold WOMAD this year at Charlton Park.  Safety for all of our festivalgoers, artists and our own staff surpasses everything.

“All of us involved with WOMAD have already been really touched by the help and generous offers of many of those we depend on to make the festival come to life. Many of the artists have already offered, or agreed, to play for us next year and we will now put our energies into making a great WOMAD 2021. We hope to see you all at Charlton Park next year for a big celebration, when we’ve put this meanie back in the bottle.

“Your love and support for the dream that is WOMAD, has always meant a lot to us, but especially now. Thank you and stay safe.”

WOMAD has been very fortunate in that they have already completed 3 festivals this year around the world and planning for WOMAD 2021 is already underway.

Ticketholders for WOMAD 2020 can credit this year’s ticket for WOMAD 2021 or get a full refund, including tickets bought in instalments.  They can be either paused and payments picked up again next year for WOMAD 2021, or claim a refund of the face value of the ticket.  Details:  www.womad.co.uk and  social media.