This morning the organisers of Exmouth Pride 2020 have announced that this year's LGBT+ celebrations will not be taking place.

The event was originally meant to take place on June 20 but due to the Coronavirus outbreak the celebrations were postponed until August 22.

Exmouth Pride's organisers had hoped that the coronavirus situation might improve and that large social gatherings would be able to take place but as one organiser put it, 'that has not been the case'.

A spokesperson for Exmouth Pride said: "It is crucial that we consider the health, safety and well-being of our many volunteers, performers, traders, exhibitors, and the many hundreds of people who come to celebrate Pride with us.

"Concerns over the continuing spread of the virus, the impact of the Track and Trace programme and the logistical difficulties in planning such a big event in the centre of our town, have all been taken into consideration in coming to this decision.

"We want to thank our sponsors, performers, traders and friends for their patience and support during this difficult time. We know that many, many people will be deeply disappointed that this landmark event on the town's calendar will not be taking place this year. We will also miss raising the LGBT+ profile at Exmouth Carnival which as many of you know, has also been cancelled.

"We can assure you that we are already making preparations for Exmouth Pride 2021. We will be back in the town's beautiful Manor Gardens on June 19 2021 where we can mark the victories in the ongoing fight for LGBT+ equality; recognize the ongoing battles and celebrate how far we have come. Save the date!

"We plan music, fun, thoughtful discussion and celebrations. That is our light at the end of this COVID 19 tunnel – and we are heading towards it – please join us!"

Regardless of the event's cancellation Exmouth Pride remains as a contact point for LGBT+ people in the Exmouth community, if you would like to find out more about Exmouth Pride click here.