The Mercury's Charity of the Year faces a £30,000 funding deficit after the cancellation of two of its major fundraisers amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Martha Trust in Deal has this week announced the cancellation of its two main summer music events - Music on the Farm at Solley's in Ripple and Music4Martha held on The Square outside The Kings Head, Port Arms and Dunkerleys.

Last year, these events raised more than £31,000 for the charity which provides lifelong care for people with profound physical and learning disabilities.

One day festival Music on the Farm, originally scheduled for June 28 this year, had been rescheduled for August 16 but will now not return until Sunday, June 27 next year.

Music4Martha should have been staged on Sunday, August 9 but has been rearranged for Sunday, August 1 2021.

Fundraising and events officer Kerry Banks BEM said: "In light of the current government guidance on social gatherings, limiting the spread of Covid-19 and in conjunction with all involved, we have taken the difficult decision to reschedule both events and focus on 2021.

"Our residents at Martha need us more than ever so if you are thinking of fundraising for a charity, please consider Martha – we would love to hear from you and support you with any fundraising activities you can offer.”

Martha Trust runs three small settings - two in Hacklinge - providing a home for life as well as respite facilities and vital support for families and carers.

Due to Covid-19, the homes have been on lockdown since February with respite put on hold until it is safe to open the homes again.

Visit www.marthatrust.org.uk to find out more or email kerrybanks@marthatrust.org.uk to offer your help

Read more: All the latest news from Deal