Hadlow College lambing weekend in March cancelled over coronavirus fears

A popular event to celebrate the start of spring has been cancelled over coronavirus fears.

Hadlow College welcomed 10,000 visitors to last year's lambing weekend but the spread of COVID-19 has led organisers to axe the upcoming event in Tonbridge.

It was due to take place on Saturday, March 14 and Sunday, March 15.

The Tonbridge Road college, which offers a range of farming and agriculture courses to students aged 14 and above, has been running the public lambing weekend for more than 20 years.

Activities include tractor rides, birds of prey display, food stalls and of course - meeting the new born lambs.

But, in light of growing public concern that the virus will spread across the UK, the college has decided it is best to cancel.

A statement released by the college says: "Due to the developing situation across the country regarding the outbreak and spread of the coronavirus Covid-19, and having considered guidance relating to the hosting of large public gatherings, Hadlow College has reluctantly taken the decision to cancel its forthcoming lambing weekend.

"Although the college has not currently experienced any cases of the virus, this action is being taken as a precautionary measure in light of the current situation, to protect everyone involved and to give as much advanced warning as possible to the many supporters of the event.

Interim principal Graham Morley said: "The lambing weekend is one of the college’s largest events and a firm fixture in our calendar.

"It regularly attracts in excess of 10,000 visitors from the local community and wider surrounding area.

"Therefore, this has not been a decision we have taken lightly and we do apologise to anyone that is inconvenienced by this decision.

"However, given the recent developments surrounding Covid-19, it is the most sensible course of action to ensure we avoid all potential risks to the public, our students and staff."

Anyone who pre-bought tickets will get a full refund.

The news comes after the first case of the illness in the county was confirmed earlier this week whilst Medway doctor and Cbeebies presenter Dr Ranj also released a video in which in clear simple steps he explains the coronovirus to children and how it might affect them.

Despite the cancellation of the lambing weekend, the college will remain open as usual.

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