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A hugely popular sailing event has been cancelled for the first time since the two world wars due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The annual Ramsgate Week Regatta, hosted by the Royal Temple Yacht Club, boasts a 163-year history and was due to be held at the end of July in Ramsgate.
The event attracts racing yachts from across Europe and the UK and is dubbed the "friendly alternative to Cowes" - the UK's major sailing regatta on the Isle of Wight.
It had been hoped the much-loved regatta would be held this summer, but organisers say it will not be possible while protecting those involved amid the pandemic.
Commodore David Parish says he knows it will be a disappointment to many, including the Ramsgate Week team and sponsors.
"Unfortunately we cannot see how we can run the regatta in the way we would wish," he said.
"We appreciate the patience that everyone has shown while we looked into how we could go ahead with Ramsgate Week, but unfortunately it is not to be this year and we would like to thank the many volunteers who have been waiting to jump into action if needed."
Ramsgate Week chairman Karen Cox added: "In the 163-year history of the Royal Temple Yacht Club we believe this to be the first cancellation of our flagship event outside of the two World Wars.
"However, we owe it to all our competitors, both local and visiting, to provide a quality event and maintain the reputation of our club and the regatta."
Plans are already underway for Euromarine Insurance Ramsgate Week 2021, which will take place between July 18 and 23, 2021.
Those competitors who have already entered will be contacted this week and will be invited to roll over their 2020 entry to next year.
The event typically includes races involving various classes of yachts including IRC (International Rating Certificate) class, Cruiser class crews battling it out for a series of cups and championship races.
Ramsgate Week is one of a long list of summer events to be cancelled in Thanet, including Broadstairs Folk Week, the Hi Tide festival at Dreamland and Broadstairs Water Gala.
