THE IW Bus Museum and CAMRA have announced the Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend, due to be held on 10/11 October, has been cancelled.

The current pandemic is having a profound effect in many areas of life, including adversely affecting the intensive planning for this hugely popular weekend event.

Under normal circumstances the Beer and Buses weekend takes several months to plan and coordinate. Even if the current lockdown is lifted in May, there are numerous concerns about the viability of the event.

This includes uncertainty around requirements for social distancing in the autumn, or if large public gatherings will be feasible. Last year’s event was the biggest yet, with some 18,000 visitors. Over 100 classic buses and coaches took part, along with 120 licensed venues.

Ben Bartram, the principal organiser for the IW Bus Museum, revealed the decision was not an easy one to make, he said: “There are simply too many unknowns at present, too many factors that make forecasting difficult.

"There are logistical issues around vehicle preparation, both those from the IW Bus Museum and the large number of those visiting. We also recognise some vehicle owners may be suffering financial hardship because of the national lockdown.”

Another major factor is how long the current enforced closure of pubs and other licensed venues will last. Tim Marshall of CAMRA said: “We cannot assume pubs, clubs, hotels and other accommodation providers will be open at that time.

"Naturally, we wish all of them every success in re-opening when it is possible to do so safely. CAMRA will be offering support wherever possible, so we hope they will consider joining in with the event again in future. We certainly intend to be back next year.”