4BR has been informed that the organisers of the Welsh Open Championship have taken the decision to cancel the 2021 event.

The event was due to take place on Saturday 6th February.

Difficult decision

Contest Controller Dean Evans told 4BR: "The difficult decision follows extensive discussions with the management of the Grand Pavilion Porthcawl regarding the potential social distancing / health and safety measures that would have to be put in place.

We had to take into account the difficulties in complying with these measures, along with the ever changing situation in Wales with local lockdowns due to the current second Covid-19 wave. As a result this was only logical conclusion we could come to."

The organisers are determined that the event will return in 2022 and discussions are already underwayWelsh Open

2022 return

He added: "The organisers are determined that the event will return in 2022 and discussions are already underway. Once the date has been confirmed more details will be released."

The Welsh Open has heralded the opening of the Welsh contesting season since 1998 and has become a popular contest that now attracts bands from both sides of the River Severn. Filton Concert won the title for a fourth time in 2020.