One of the biggest free music festivals in East Lancashire has been cancelled.

Darwen Live, which was due to take place over the Bank Holiday weekend on May 24 and 25, has sadly been cancelled for the first time in its 20 year history, due to the coronavirus outbreak.

In a statement on their website, organisers wrote: "We are incredibly sad that, for the first time since the event started in 2000, this year’s Darwen Live music festival will not be taking place.

"It is our intention to retain as many of the announced artists as possible for next year and we look forward to seeing you on 30 and 31 May 2021.

"As always, Darwen Live is organised by volunteers and all offers to assist or contribute are gratefully received.

"Please contact us through Facebook or Twitter if you are able to lend your support.

"Until next year, take care of yourselves and those around you.

"Darren and all the Darwen Live contributors."

Darwen Live has been running since 2000, with headliners over the years including Grace Davies, Paul Young, the Lancashire Hot Pots, Republica and Lucy Spraggan.

One of the biggest free to attend music festivals in the UK, it takes place annually on the last Bank Holiday Weekend in May.

This year's line-up featured household names such as Matt Cardle, Black Grape and Skaface.

Organisers tried to hold on to hope that the festival could still go ahead due to the length of time between the first case of coronavirus being confirmed in the UK and the end of May.

However, at the end of March, the sad decision was made to bring the organisation of the festival to an end for 2020.

The estimated attendance at the main stage during Darwen Live in 2019 was 6,000 at peak time, which would cause concern due to the uncertainty around when social distancing and isolation measures will be lifted.