LOVE it or hate it, Reading Festival has become a huge part of the town's identity, with the 50th anniversary of the event being marked next year.

Readers have been responding to the "obvious" decision to cancel Reading Festival this year in the wake of the pandemic.

It was announced on Tuesday that the annual event would not be taking place after organisers had, until then, remained quiet since the coronavirus outbreak.

RELATED: Reading Festival CANCELLED

In a statement, they said on Tuesday, May 12: "Reading will no longer be taking place this year.

"It has become clear that it’s just not possible for this year’s festival to go ahead."

Reacting to the news, Steve Lutwyche said: "Disappointed for those going (I was giving it a swerve this year) but obviously sensible."

Dan Funders added: "Best line up for years but it’s for the best. It can wait until next year."

Not all readers share the view the cancellation is a disappointment, though.

Stuart Barnett said: "Oh what a shame!

"A year off 100k children running the streets of Reading!

"Hopefully the organisers abandon the festival for good so a proper festival can take its place."

Amy Opalko shared this strong view, adding: "And hopefully they can use the year off to sort it out and turn it back into a rock festival."

READ MORE: Reading's Madejski Stadium to host mobile testing unit in battle against COVID-19

Some just expressed that the news was not a surprise given the extent of the coronavirus pandemic.

Claire Gold said: "Well that was obvious", while Marie Tildesley said: "Oh well, they could have announced it sooner!"

Meanwhile, officials have spoken about the economic impact the cancellation will have on the town.

Speaking to The Chronicle, Councillor Karen Roland, lead member for culture, said: "The festival cancellation will have an incredible impact on the economy and activities to the town, seeing a loss of about £31 million, which the festival brings in annually into Reading.

"It is sad, but I’m sure it will be back next year for the 50th anniversary."

With next year's milestone anniversary in mind, we want to see your pictures of Reading Festivals past!

Click the contribution option below to send in photos from any year of fond memories at Reading Festival.