The organisers of a popular Kent music festival says they are "gutted" to once again have to cancel the event due to the pandemic.

The City Sound Project should have taken place in Canterbury's Dane John Gardens next month but, with up to 20,000 attendees, they fear the "risk is too high".

That is despite the predicted lifting of social distancing restrictions on July 19, which are set to be announced by the Government today.

But organiser Blake McCaskill says that without adequate time and planning he cannot properly put on the event.

The outdoor festival was also cancelled last year due to the lockdown.

"I cannot explain how gutting this decision has been to take," said Mr McCaskill.

"The entire City Sound Project team was desperate for the return to the Dane John Gardens this year.

"We had been working towards the August Bank Holiday weekend but, despite the easing of restrictions, we feel that with so many people attending, the risks are still too high.

"Normally, it would take up to six months' planning to put on an event like this, especially to secure sponsorship as its fee entry and make all the health and safety arrangements."

But Mr McCaskill says there has been too much uncertainty with cases rising in recent months and he cannot risk rushing it.

"We pride ourselves on getting it right and I am not confident of that with such a short lead time, " he said.

"The safety and wellbeing of our attendees also has to come first and cancelling this year’s festival is the only way to ensure that.

"We’re sure, and hopeful, that everyone will understand and support our position here."

The City Sound Project started in 2012 at multiple locations across the city before being focused on the Dane John Gardens.

It has grown into one of the county's biggest music festivals, attracting more than 20,000 people in 2019.

Blake said: "Now we’re focused and dedicated on making 2022 our greatest year yet.

"We can’t wait to welcome everyone back to the Dane John for a weekend of music and arts sometime in next year."

Read more: All the latest news from Canterbury