THE Big Feastival, a three-day music and food event held on rock Alex James’s West Oxfordshire farm, has been cancelled.

The festival, which attracts tens of thousands of people to Kingham, near Chipping Norton, is the latest event to fall victim to the fight to stop the spread of coronavirus.

The event would have taken place on August Bank Holiday with disco star Nile Rodgers & Chic, singer Rag’n’Bone Man and chart-topping DJ and pop producer Sigala as headliners.

It will return in August 2021 with the same headliners already confirmed.

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Host, Alex James, who plays bass with the band Blur, said: “After a lot of hard work, sweat and today a few tears, it is with a heavy heart that we have to confirm the cancellation of The Big Feastival 2020. The festival has always been about uniting friends and family in a fun, safe and secure environment, to celebrate the final days of the summer. However, for the reasons you already know, we just can’t see a way to do that this year without sacrificing the very thing that makes The Big Feastival so special.

“We know how many of you were hoping we could find a way to continue and we are devastated we won’t be able to create some much-needed happy memories on the farm this year.

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“We are also truly sorry for any concern we have caused you while we explored all options before coming to this decision and thank you for your patience. We will be back, and 27-29 August 2021 is going to be one truly unforgettable weekend! We are delighted to confirm that Nile Rogers & CHIC, Rag‘n’Bone Man and Sigala have all confirmed they will be joining the party in 2021.

“The highlight of the summer is having you join us on the farm but the safety of everyone always has to come first. I will miss your smiling faces in the Cheese Hub and in front of the Main Stage. My heart goes out from my family to yours. Stay safe, keep well and I can’t wait to see you in 2021. Let’s make it a bumper one!”

Oxford Mail:

A festival spokesman said: “The Big Feastival has always been about uniting friends and family in a fun, safe and secure environment to celebrate the final days of the summer. So, in light of ongoing health concerns and UK government restrictions regarding Covid-19, it is with heavy hearts that we have decided to cancel The Big Feastival 2020.

“We thank our loyal fanbase and everyone involved for their support, and look forward to welcoming everyone back to Alex James’ Farm, from August 27 –29 August 2021, for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend.”

Ticket holders can transfer tickets to 2021 or request a refund.