CLECKHEATON'S annual Christmas festival and market has been cancelled this year due to coronavirus.

Organisers of the popular event have announced that while they had been planning to focus on markets only this year, they have not been able to find a suitable solution "that sits in line with the precautions needed due to the coronavirus threat".

Posting on the website, they state: "We are all naturally disappointed and having worked closely with Kirklees; current UK and local restrictions mean it would be irresponsible to go ahead with an event that now draws 10,000 people."

But they reiterated that Cleckheaton itself is still open for business an the Christmas Lights will still be switched on in the town on November 14 - but without the live entertainment that usually goes with it.

They added: "We urge our regular Christmas Market visitors to come to Cleckheaton and experience the wonderful shopping and hospitality mix that Cleckheaton is known for over the festive period and beyond."

"Thank you so much for your ongoing support and we cannot wait to bring friends and family back together to celebrate the 2021 festive season once again in Cleckheaton."