Winter Wonderland 2020 in Hyde Park cancelled due to coronavirus

WINTER Wonderland has been cancelled this year amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Organisers of the popular event in Hyde Park announced today it would not be going ahead for the first time since it started 13 years ago.

The move will no doubt leave millions of families who head to the attraction each year disappointed.

Organisers say they "put a lot of work, sweat and even some tears into trying to make this year’s event possible";.

The tourist event is visited by millions each year - including celebs - and is billed as the biggest Christmas fair in the UK.

There is also an Ice Bar, Bavarian Village, Santa Land and bars and food shacks serving up German beer and snacks.

Winter Wonderland said in a statement: "Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has always been about bringing friends and family together in a fun, safe and interactive environment to celebrate the festive season.

"Our team has worked tirelessly, exploring every possible option in the hopes of being able to move forward with the event in a responsible manner and provide London with some much-needed festive cheer.

"However, in light of ongoing health concerns, travel restrictions and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, and considering the size and scale of this event, we just couldn’t find a way to do that without compromising the magical attractions, shows, rides, bars and experiences that make Hyde Park Winter Wonderland so special."

As well as boasting the UK's largest outdoor ice rink, there are also fairground rides and a Ferris wheel overlooking the city.

Winter Wonderland is the latest major event to fall victim the coronavirus pandemic.

Last week, Notting Hill Carnival became digital for the first time in its 54-year history after being axed.

It followed a number of sporting events that were also cancelled - including Wimbledon and the Tokyo Olympics.