ONE of North Somerset's "flagship events" will not take place this summer, due to continuing Covid-19 restrictions.

North Somerset Council has confirmed that the Weston Air Festival and Armed Forces Day celebrations, which were scheduled for the weekend of June 19-20, are unable to go ahead this year.

Restrictions regarding large outdoor gatherings remain in place until Monday, June 21 - as things stand on the government roadmap for easing the country out of lockdown - and so the air show has been called off.

The council said that alternative dates had been explored, but those proved "operationally unviable".

Cllr Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council's executive member for leisure, culture and tourism, said: "We are extremely disappointed that the air festival cannot go ahead this year.

"It is one of the region’s flagship events and is of huge importance to the local economy.

"However, we have to follow government guidance, which means we are unable to stage an event of this size at this time.

"Our priority continues to be to protect the health and safety of both local residents and visitors."

Cllr Solomon added that money earmarked for the air festival would now be used to support other events.

"We are working hard to bring forward a programme of events that people can enjoy as the restrictions are lifted," he said.

"After months of lockdown these events will provide great opportunities for people to get out and about again and enjoy the entertainment on offer."

Planned events over the summer season include the Great Weston Ride, Real Ale Festival, Dairy Festival, Continental Market, Weston Sea Shanty, Beach Rugby, Trucks @ The Beach, Race for Life, MG Owners Car Meet and Vintage Bus Rally.