ORGANISERS of the cancelled Hinterlands Film Festival, which would have taken place in Skipton in May, say they hope to reorganise it as soon as possible once things have returned to normal after the coronavirus.

The four day celebration of everything rural would have seen films and events held at various venues across the town, with camping at Aireville Park. The festival was held for the first time last year and was instigated by Great Place: Lakes and Dales, set up to attract younger people and families to stay put and to come and live in the Dales and in the Lakes.

Joint organisers, Wild Rumpus said: “We’re sad to announce that Hinterlands Film Festival has to be postponed due to the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and following government advice.

“We plan to reschedule the festival for a later date and will announce the new festival dates as soon as they are confirmed. And we will be in touch with everyone who has booked a ticket or festival pass regarding refunding, donating or deferring tickets.

“Although we’re disappointed that Hinterlands cannot go ahead in May as planned, the safety of everyone attending and working at the festival is our top priority.

“Thanks to our partners, venues and film fans for your enthusiasm and support, and we look forward to bringing Hinterlands back to Skipton in the future.”

Meanwhile, Great Place: Lakes and Dales has also postponed its Aerial contemporary arts festival in the South Lakes, and The Fold events, due to take place in Settle and Bentham.

Programme manager Lindsey Hebden said it had been a sad but inevitable decision.

“All participants and attendees have been notified separately by the event organisers – our colleagues and amazing creative teams who have worked tirelessly and imaginatively during the past year to co-design and engage young people with their planned activity to help GPLD realise our aspirations for the area. We extend a big thanks to them for their continued input and resilience and will continue to work closely and flexibly with them to re-programme future activity. The health and wellbeing of our creative communities is paramount and we remain committed to supporting the people and organisations working with us across the arts, culture and heritage sectors. “