A POPULAR transport rally held annually in Oswestry will not go ahead because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Oswestry Transport Rally Festival Weekender, which was to take place on July18 and 19 this year, 2020, was officially called off by bosses at the British Ironworks Centre, on the outskirts of the town.

The move was made after government guidelines did not allow for mass groups, meaning the event will be cancelled.

A spokesman said: "We’ve spent the past few months being eternally optimistic over the virus coming to an end, but sadly our nation is still battling to overcome it and we now feel that it is an appropriate time to officially cancel our annual transport rally event.

"As such, under government advice and to ensure the safety of everyone that would be involved in the event, this year’s transport rally will no longer be going ahead.

"We are so sorry to disappoint those that were looking forward to attending the event, but we can reassure you that we are still aiming to host the weekender event next year.

"In 2021, it is our hope to break previous records by showcasing the greatest number of vintage and classic vehicles yet.

We had more than 700 vehicles booked in for this year, so our aim is to hit 1,000 for next year.

"All those who applied to showcase their vehicles at this event will be contacted for next year’s festival, so please keep an eye out for further details.

"We really appreciate all of your support and patience at this difficult time, and we are really looking forward to welcoming you all back to the Centre when it is safe to do so."