A FESTIVAL due to take place at Reading’s Abbey Ruins later this year has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Organisers of Down at the Abbey announced the independent festival will no longer take place this year and has been rescheduled for Saturday, September 11, 2021.

A statement released by the team said: "This is a statement we were hoping we wouldn’t have to make but 2020 is the year that keeps on surprising and sadly for the wrong reasons.

READ ALSO: John Lewis confirms it WILL reopen Reading store but closes Newbury store.

"Due to the current pandemic and wanting to produce a safe event for everyone involved, we’ve made the decision to postpone this year’s festival to Saturday 11th September 2021.

It continued: "After years of work and overcoming a number of challenges, we were delighted and very proud to successfully launch the inaugural Down at the Abbey last year in the stunning and historical setting of Reading Abbey Ruins, and receive such positive audience feedback.

"We are an independent festival and with that brings many positives including creative freedom, but also in this difficult time, unique challenges.

READ ALSO: Million pound home for sale in Earley - look inside.

"Due to this, we kindly ask for your continued support and if you can, to keep hold of your existing ticket, where it will automatically be rolled over for the 2021 event."

Organisers explained ticket prices will increase for next year and so retained tickets will be the cheapest available.

They said: "We are very much aware that times are tough for everyone and if you are not in a position to keep hold of your ticket, we understand, and you are entitled to receive a face value refund.

"Our ticket partner Gigantic will be in touch and will handle and process any refunds on our behalf. For anyone, wishing to still attend next year no further action is required.

"We look forward to a time when it will be safe for us all to be able to come together again; and we hope to see you in the ruins next September."