The iconic Neath September Fair, which has been running for more than 700 years, has been cancelled this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The decision to cancel Neath Fair has, like many other major events around the UK, been taken early because of the significant preparation in advance that is necessary to stage these large events.
Held in the town centre, the street fair usually starts on the second Tuesday of September each year. In more recent years it has incorporated a funfair in Milland Road Car Park operated by the Showman’s Guild.
Traders from around the UK and Europe flock to the town for the event, which is recognised as the fourth largest Chartered Street Trading Fair in the UK. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, last year’s event also did not go ahead.
A Neath Port Talbot Council spokeswoman explained: “We realise the disappointment not having a Neath Fair 2021 will cause.
“But because of the uncertainty of what public safety restrictions may still be in place in September and the need for making meticulous forward plans for such an event it will be impossible to organise a safe and successful fair this year but we hope Neath Fair will be around for future years for many generations to enjoy.”
