Time has been called on a popular fundraising beer festival for next year due to the coronavirus threat.

Organisers of the Dorchester Beerex says it is with 'extreme sadness' that that 33rd event due to take place at the Corn Exchange in February 2021 will not be held.

It will return in 2022.

The two-day event, a joint venture between the West Dorset branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) and Dorchester Casterbridge Rotary, is a major celebration of real ale and cider which attracts thousands from all over the country.

It is also a big charity fundraiser with more than £200,000 handed out to good causes over the years. This year a record £20,000 was raised.

The Beerex committee said it discussed the possibility of an event later next year but felt in the current climate it would be better to come back in 2022.

CAMRA nationally is not permitting any beer festivals or social gatherings.

Beerex committee spokesman Rich Gabe said: "At a recent Zoom meeting we were unanimous in our decision and all thought it would be irresponsible and lack duty of care to our customers and volunteer staff to potentially put them in danger by helping to spread such a deadly virus with little social distancing.

"We did not take this action lightly as we realise that local good causes and charities will be feeling the strain of the pandemic. Rest assured we aim to be back in the Corn Exchange early February 2022."

Mr Gabe added: "As a fundraising event we look to local businesses for support and goodwill. We realise many of our supporters will be struggling to maintain their business and we wish them well and hope to see them involved in Beerex 2022."

Over the years, proceeds from the festival have helped a variety of good causes.

This includes financing a new kitchen for Dorchester Scouts and supporting charities like Headway, Dorchester Stroke Society, Dorchester Alzheimer's Society and the M.V Freedom.

Larger well known charities such as Dorset& Somerset Air Ambulance have received funds and the Weymouth RNLI crew received new lifejackets.

Donations have also been made to Dorchester Arts, Dorchester Skatepark and Gully's place supporting terminally ill children. The most recent recipient was the Dorset Mind charity which helps with recovery and education of mental health.

Mr Gabe said: "The Beerex committee would like to raise a glass and wish all of our supporters good health and we look forward to seeing you all safe in 2022."