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Coronavirus: Notting Hill Carnival cancelled over COVID-19 fears

London's famous Notting Hill Carnival over August bank holiday has been cancelled because of coronavirus concerns, organisers have confirmed.

The two-day street party usually sees more than a million people pack the streets to take in the music and watch processions of dancers.

But like nearly all big public events coming up in the coming months, organisers have pulled the plug.

They said the event had "faced many challenges this year".

A statement said: "After lengthy consultations with our strategic partners and our advisory council, the board has taken the decision that this year's carnival will not take place on the streets of Notting Hill as it has done for over 50 years.

"This will also mean that Panorama, the annual steelband competition, will not take place."

Organisers said it had not been an easy decision.

"The reality of the COVID-19 pandemic and the way in which it has unfolded means that this is the only safe option. Everyone's health has to come first," said the statement.

Plans are instead under way for a virtual event in August to "bring the carnival spirit to people from the safety of their homes, and make them feel connected and engaged".

It is hoped the 2021 event can go ahead as normal.