Coronavirus: Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party tickets withdrawn

Tens of thousands of visitors normally usher in the new year at what is billed as "the UK's biggest street party"

Tickets for Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party have been withdrawn from sale.

Organiser Underbelly said the event could not take place in its usual way, after the restrictions imposed to deal with coronavirus.

Tickets, which have been on sale since the start of the year, would no longer be available.

People who have already bought tickets will be offered a refund, with a further announcement in August on the Hogmanay programme.

A statement issued by Underbelly on Wednesday evening said: "As has been reported, exciting and positive discussions are taking place between City of Edinburgh Council and Underbelly in relation to the Hogmanay programme for 2020.

"However, it is clear to all parties that the famous Street Party cannot take place in its current form in 2020 and tickets are today being taken off sale.

"Customers who have booked tickets will be contacted in the next 14 days to be offered a full refund."

Lockdown impact

It added: "An announcement on the 2020-21 Edinburgh's Hogmanay programme will take place towards the end of August."

Earlier City of Edinburgh Council leader Adam McVey had said talks were being held about the future of the event.

"All involved recognise the uncertainty of the current situation and the significant requirements for anything Edinburgh hosts to meet public health guidance," he said.

"It's clear that if our 2020 winter festivals go ahead they will look very different from recent years, using different locations across the city.

"It is also important to think more creatively about how to better support our local businesses who have been impacted by the lockdown."