A popular Bank Holiday event feared cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic will go ahead but with a limited programme.

Sandwich Festival would usually comprise of four days of packed activities and events across the town, such as live music, dancing, re-enactments and a bun run.

But this year, to avoid large, condensed crowds in line with government restrictions, it has been scaled back to just one or two events each day.

These include stalls both inside and outside St Peters Church from Saturday to Monday. These will be a mixture of crafts from local people plus refreshments from Nostalgic Sandwich.

On Sunday, classic Italian Alfa Romeos will go on show as East Kent and Sussex Alfa Romeo Club bring their cars to the Guildhall Forecourt.

On Bank Holiday Monday, a traditional market, organised by Annemarie Huigen, will be set up on the Guildhall Forecourt.

There will be no major event on the Quay Green but the Sandwich Medieval Centre will be open for visitors for free from Saturday to Monday from 10am to 5pm.

The Blacksmith will be working his forge and making parts for the medieval boat ‘The Nicholas’, and other crafts will be demonstrated including woodworking, calligraphy and bread making at various times.

The traditional Rotary Duck Race, which sees crowds line across the Quay, has been postponed for a second year running.

The event last year was modified following the tragic events of Lucas Dobson. The club instead held a tombola style duck draw helping to raising funds for the emergency services and others involved in the search and rescue operation for the six-year-old who died after falling into the River Stour.

President Stephen Ruston has pledged that it will return in the autumn as virtual race.

He said: "As we approach this August Bank Holiday we would like to re-assure the public and our corporate sponsors that the ducks have not gone away but are in training for the forthcoming virtual race.

"The details will be available in the coming weeks."

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