ONE of the biggest dates in Dunfermline's calendar has become the latest event to fall to coronavirus.

Dunfermline Children's Gala, which is enjoyed annually by thousands of West Fifers, has been called off by organisers with what they said was "a heavy heart".

The event, which brings together schoolchildren, local groups and others to parade along the High Street, as well as providing a range of entertainment, had been scheduled to go ahead on June 27.

But, in a statement on the gala day's Facebook page, the committee said: "In view of the current situation with coronavirus and, in particular, Government guidance on mass gatherings, limiting social contact and that we should anticipate current restrictions remaining in place for some months, the committee has decided it will not be possible to proceed with the Children’s Gala Day on 27th June 2020 and so it is, sadly, cancelled.

"We have made this decision with a heavy heart but feel that the health and wellbeing of all who may have been involved in Gala 2020, including our primary school children, volunteers, spectators, partners etc, is of paramount importance. We hope that you understand and support our decision.

"If you have booked a stall or advertising, or we have been liaising with you for gala day arrangements, we will be in direct contact with you in the near future.

"Please stay safe folks and keep checking our page for further communications."

Their decision follows those of gala committees in Crossford, Rosyth and Kincardine, who have all called off their events over the past week.

Organisers in Rosyth and Kincardine are, however, hoping to reschedule for a date later in the year if possible.