A festival featuring Fat Boy Slim and Madness has been postponed until 2021 due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

The two-day Hi-Tide festival was due to be held in July at Dreamland in Margate as part of the theme park's 100th birthday celebrations.

But organisers Fifty Six Group Ltd say the ongoing pandemic has led to the decision to postpone the major event until July next year.

In a statement, they said: "In the current situation brought about by Covid-19, it’s not possible to hold the festival this year for several reasons - the most important being the health and safety of the local community, fans, artists, our staff and suppliers.

"Margate is such a special place for us, and we were so excited to be part of Dreamland’s summer events that we can only apologise for the disappointment caused.

"But everyone’s safety is paramount and unfortunately we were left with no choice other than postponement. We’d like to thank you for your patience, support and understanding during this time.

"All tickets purchased for this year’s event will be valid for the rescheduled festival in 2021 taking place on July 3 and 4, and all the incredible artists that were due to play this year will be there waiting for you.

"If, however, you wish to have a refund please contact your original point of purchase.

"As soon as the current situation improves, we will be back to work with local partners in Margate and are planning something special for this autumn to support the local community and celebrate the culture and place we love."

Created by the team behind the sell-out Demon Dayz in 2017, the event was set to welcome an incredible 15,000 people each day with two separate stages and a star-studded line-up.

On Saturday, July 4, Fatboy Slim was going to headline the show, with Jax Jones, Hannah Wants and Riton also performing.

And on Sunday, July 5, the iconic ska band Madness was due on stage, followed by Rudimental, Baxter Dury, Gentleman's Dub Club and Hollie Cook.

Suggs from Madness and Fatboy Slim - aka Norman Cook - headed down to the seaside town in January to kick off the Hi-Tide celebrations, giving away 100 free tickets to fans from an ice cream van.

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