The organisers of the popular Narberth Food Festival have announced that the event won’t go ahead this autumn due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The event has established itself as a highlight in Wales’ gastronomic calendar and was due to take place on September 26 and 27.

But, with the Government advising against mass gatherings and rules around social distancing, Festival chairman Colin Russell said there was no alternative but to pause the event until 2021.

Although the cancellation is a blow to food and drink producers as well as businesses in Narberth who share the economic benefit, Colin said the ways in which businesses had adapted to working in different ways was a source of inspiration.

“Some have made a massive effort to connect with their local communities, by offering on-line sales and deliveries, and customers have been supporting them through that,” said Colin.

“Local food producers have had it really tough but they have found some amazing ways of adapting.’’

Colin said he looked forward to welcoming them, and all the regular Festival visitors, back for the 2021 event.

“They have shown incredible resilience through all of this,’’ he added.