A SPECIAL event in Taunton to celebrate the Armed Forces has been cancelled.

Organisers of the town's Armed Forces Day have revealed, 'with a very heavy heart', that the 2021 event - which was set to take place in Vivary Park on July 3 - has been called off.

It comes after the announcement of the third lockdown in the UK due to the coronavirus crisis.

"It is with a very heavy heart that we must inform everyone that Armed Forces Day 2021 is being postponed and moved to next year," said a spokesperson.

"Following the recent announcement of further Covid restrictions the committee have reluctantly agreed to cancel this years Armed Forces Day Celebrations which were to be held in Vivary Park, Taunton.

"While we appreciate that people will be disappointed, it will take several months before any form of normality returns to our lives.

"This is also compounded with challenges of securing funding, along with people’s understandable reluctance to attend major events with thousands of attendees.

"We are obviously disappointed, but we know we have made the right decision."

The last Armed Forces Day event was held in the park in 2019 and saw thousands of people turn out to enjoy displays, stalls and more in recognition of those who serve.

And the spokesperson said while the cancellation was disappointing, it meant the event would return stronger in 2022.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued support and involvement with Somerset Armed Forces Day, which is so important and appreciated," they said.

"Plans are underway for the 2022 event, which will be held on Saturday, July 2, in Vivary Park, Taunton.

"We are very excited with our plans for the show to go ahead next year.

"The postponement is giving us extra time to make this the largest event of its type ever held in Somerset."