CARNIVALS in Somerset have been cancelled for the second time due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnivals Association announced the news this morning (March 30).

This means the eight Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnivals - Bridgwater, Burnham on Sea, Weston-super-Mare, North Petherton, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Wells and Glastonbury - will not take place this year.

The decision was made following a meeting of the Somerset County Guy Fawkes Carnival Association.

David Churches, S.C.G.F.C.A. Secretary, said it was an "extremely hard" decision to make.

“In the current financial climate and with so much uncertainty still present in terms of the risk from the virus, we felt this was the most sensible option for us all," he said.

“Time is not on our side for our carnivals which are held in November, and the lockdown restrictions over the past 12 months have seriously limited the fundraising opportunities for our towns, carnival clubs and walking groups.

"When this is combined with the ongoing social distancing arrangements, there is very little chance in raising the necessary monies needed to put on such spectacular events or indeed building the amazing entries we have become accustomed to over the years.

“I am sure many members of the public and carnival lovers will be disappointed by this news, and we look forward to welcoming them back to our carnivals as we know them in 2022."