A rock music extravaganza which usually attracts big names has been postponed - as the majority of the audience is in the "vulnerable age group" for coronavirus.

Organisers of A New Day Festival near Faversham have cancelled this year's event after uncertainty about whether it would go ahead and described the decision as a "devastating blow".

It was due to be held at Mount Ephraim Gardens between August 27 and 30, with Seth Lakeman, Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel and The Blockheads set to perform.

But it has now been rescheduled for August 20-22 next year.

In a post on the festival's website, it states: "We were hopeful, up until this weekend, that the tide might turn sufficiently to enable us to hold our lovely little festival again this year, complete with the relevant precautions, social distancing etc, etc.

"However, looking at the recent scenes of beaches and city centres rammed with people, reports of the all-important “R” number rising above one again, gave us cause for concern.

"Equally concerning is the fact that the vast majority of our audience, performers and, yes, the organisers are in the most vulnerable age group.

"Now, after consultations with local residents and our venue hosts, expressing grave concerns and asking us to postpone this year, there is only one option."

Bosses say the only hope of surviving this "disastrous state of affairs" lies with punters.

They have called on fans to keep their tickets for next year - and for every one rolled over, they will donate one to NHS staff members for free.

A draw of ticket holders will also be held, the winner of which will receive passes for the following year.

If punters are not able to hold onto their tickets, refunds will be available as soon as the organisers can process them.

But people are being offered vouchers for 2022 if they cannot attend next year to help "save the festival".

The news comes as other struggling festivals across the county have been forced to cancel or postpone amid the coronavirus pandemic.

If you require a refund email dave@anewdayfestival.com.

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham