THE 44th annual Farnham Beer Exhibition due to be held from April 23 to 25 has been postponed – but a new date has already been set for August.

Now set to take place from August 20 to 22, the later event will represent the first Summer Farnham Beerex in the festival’s long history.

In a statement, directors of Beerex said they reached the decision to push back this year’s event "after much debate and with great regret", in view of the increasing risk to individual’s health caused by COVID-19 and the ongoing uncertainty regarding the staging of future events.

Farnham Beerex chairman, Keith Harris, said: “Our primary concern and responsibility is the welfare of our visitors, volunteers and all others associated with this great annual event.

"We know that many will be as disappointed as we are but trust that our decision will be understood by all."

The organisers say they are now working hard to unravel all of the planning and commitments related to the event in April, and will contact all who have purchased tickets by email before March 30.

All tickets will be valid for the same corresponding session in August.

Further updates, including the process for ticket-holders unable to attend the August dates, will be posted online at www.farnhambeerex.org.uk

"Thank you for your understanding in these times of unprecedented uncertainty. Please stay safe," added Mr Harris.