One of Scotland’s most popular music festivals has been cancelled.
TRNSMT will no longer go ahead in July this year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.
Initially, announcing the cancellation, organisers cited “comments made by the first ministers” on Thursday as the reason for the event being called off.
At a press briefing, Nicola Sturgeon warned that mass gatherings such as sporting events and concerts will not be held for “months to come” – even if the country comes out of lockdown.
A TRNSMT spokeswoman later clarified: “To clarify, the reason TRNSMT is unable to go ahead as planned is, of course, due to the Covid-19 global pandemic.
“Today’s cancellation has been made, following yesterday’s updated and clear advice, given by the FM (first ministers) of Scotland.
TRNSMT was due to host Liam Gallagher, Lewis Capaldi and The Courteeners as headliners.
In a statement, organisers said that the health and safety of music fans, acts, staff and the wider community were a “top priority”.
They added that the 2021 line-up announcement will be made soon – and that it will be “as close to this year’s as we can”.
The statement issued on Friday morning read: “We are absolutely gutted to announce that due to the comments made by the First Minister of Scotland during the daily briefing on April 23, TRNSMT will be unable to go ahead as planned in July 2020.
“We did not want to take this step but it is unavoidable. The health and safety of our fans, artists, staff and community will always be our top priority.
“We are now working hard with all the artist teams to try to get the 2021 line-up as close to this year’s as we can and will be able to update on this fully over the next two weeks.
“We’d like to thank the artist teams for their hard work in helping us to try and achieve this.
“This 2021 line-up announcement will be made soon and you will be able to either hold on to your ticket and carry it over to next year’s festival in order to secure your place well in advance or request a refund.
“Your ticket provider will be in touch so look out for an email coming from them soon. Please only get in touch with them if you haven’t been contacted after 14 days as they are very busy at this time.
“We can confirm that next year’s festival will take place on the weekend of 9-11th July 2021.”
— TRNSMT Festival (@TRNSMTfest) April 24, 2020
“Stay at home, practice social distancing and stay safe. We will be back next year to celebrate like never before – see you all then.”
