HALESOWEN Carnival has been cancelled this summer due to the coronavirus crisis.

The popular event was due to take place on July 4 but organisers have decided to pull the event in a bid to keep people safe from the virus.

Stuart Henley, chair of the event, said the festival will return bigger and better than ever in 2021.

Stuart said: "It has been a hard decision but today the committee have decided to cancel this year's event.

"Although we had most things in place for the event, the uncertainty of when and if we would be able to hold it in July due to the current pandemic made it hard to get the final items together.

"Social distancing for an event like this would not be possible and we would hate to think that visitors could end up going away with the virus, your health and safety must come first."

Those who were set to perform or hold a stall at the event are in the process of being contacted.

Last year's event saw 4,000 attend the festival at Highfield Park and included a donor drive for festival VIP Finley Hill.

Although the festival is not taking place this July, organisers are still holding the annual dog show, but it will be held virtually to follow social distancing measures.

To enter, send photos and videos of your pooch to the Halesowen Carnival Facebook page or by emailing halesowencarnival.com.

Winners of the show, which is supported by The Big Pet Store, Doggy Daycare and Blue Cross Animal Rehoming Centre, will be announced on July 14 to mark Black Country Day.

Next year's Halesowen Carnival is set to take place on Saturday, July 3.