'Temporary suspension of hostilities': Stoke Bruerne's annual Village at War event cancelled due to coronavirus

Stoke Bruerne's annual Village at War event has been cancelled for 2020 as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Friends of the Canal Museum, which organises the award-winning Second World War re-enactment weekend in September, announced the decision on Saturday (May 9).

"In the light of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and after significant consideration, the Friends of the Canal Museum wish to inform you that there will be a temporary suspension of hostilities in Stoke Bruerne this year and the Village at War Weekend, due to take place on September 12 and 13, as been cancelled," the organisers said in a statement.

"The decision has not been taken lightly, but uncertainty around how and when this global crisis will be resolved, and the need to keep our volunteers and visitors safe is paramount to us.

"We are pleased to say that our entertainers, living history groups and re-enactors will be joining us once again to keep the home fires burning on September 11-12, 2021, and we look forward to welcoming you all again then."