Marymass has been officially cancelled for the first time since the war due to coronavirus fears.

The Captain of Irvine Carters' Society Confirmed the inevitable tonight, after we previously reported organisers fears following the cancellation of the Edinburgh Festival.

However what this means for the reign of the current Royal Party is yet to be confirmed.

A statement from Captain Danny Kerr said: "Due to the current COVID-19 situation, Irvine Carters Society supported by the Marymass Festival Committee have decided to cancel this year's Marymass celebrations.

"This decision has not been taken lightly, we had hoped that the situation would have improved by August and it would have given the community something to look forward to, but this now seems impossible as time goes by.

"Irvine Carters Society are also aware that the festival relies on local companies for sponsorship. Many of these companies are no longer able to trade and it would not be right to approach them for sponsorship. Also, many of the community now find themselves in a position without work and families are finding life difficult especially families with children.

"We appreciate how disappointing this will be for the Irvine community but we find ourselves in unprecedented times and we need to look after the health and well-being of the public, participants, supporters, volunteers and suppliers.

"We would hope that all of the above will take part in the 2021 celebration. Please stay safe and follow the health advice."