Plans to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day in Cirencester have been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Cirencester Town Council had planned to host a weekend of events to celebrate 75 years of peace in Europe, with a 1940's vintage market and family day on Saturday, May 9.

A spokesman for Cirencester Town Council said: "It is with great regret that in the light of government advice, we announce the postponement of the VE75 celebrations in Cirencester.

"Our intention is to hold an event to commemorate and celebrate the end of the Second World War (in both Europe and Japan) at a later date and hopefully in the late Summer/early autumn."

"The VE75 steering group, co-ordinated by Cirencester Community Development Trust and incorporating many local organisations including Cirencester Parish Church, 29 Regiment RLC, Cirencester Town Council, Cirencester Park Polo Club and Corinium Radio have met regularly over the past year to develop plans for the weekend and we would like to thank everybody for their huge contribution so far.

"We hope that many of the plans we have put in place can be rescheduled for later in the year.

"Although none of us knows when we will beat coronavirus and life can return to normal; we are confident that we will succeed and be able to celebrate not only the end of the Second World War but also the end of coronavirus with a huge weekend event.

"Meanwhile we know that the unique, indomitable spirit, determination and sense of community and mutual support that has always enabled our country to triumph in the face of adversity will see us through the current worldwide pandemic.

"We will keep you posted on developments through our websites and social media.

"Meanwhile on behalf of the VE75 steering group, stay safe and keep well."