THE AREA’s events diary has been ravaged by cancellations, with virtually every entry in the Herald’s what’s on listings between now and June curtailed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

No listings are published in this edition of the Herald as a result, with further detailed breakdowns of the cancellations to be found in this week’s arts and sport sections.

One high-profile casualty, the 44th annual Farnham Beer Exhibition due to be held from April 23 to 25, has been postponed – but a new date has already been set.

Now set to take place from August 20 to 22, it will represent the first summer Farnham Beerex in the festival’s long history.

In a statement, directors of Beerex said they were now working hard to unravel all the planning and commitments related to the event in April, and will contact everyone who has bought tickets by email before March 30. All tickets will be valid for the same corresponding session in August.

Further updates, including the process for ticket holders unable to attend the August dates, will be posted online at www.farnhambeerex.org.uk

The Farnham Walking Festival (May 16 to June 7) has also been cancelled after Ramblers GB cancelled all their group walks.

“Serious discussions will now begin on the future of the event and its position in the years to come,” said organiser Guy Singer.

For a full statement, see www.FarnhamWalkingFestival.org

The Herald has also been forced to cancel its Festival of Transport this June, and Farnham Carnival, also in June, is believed to be under serious threat.

The Watercress Line has also closed with immediate effect until the end of May, “to protect customers, volunteers and staff” – coming just weeks after the full length of the railway re-opened between Alton and Alresford after a year-long hiatus for bridge works.

Anyone with advanced bookings between now and the end of May will be contacted within the next 21 days to arrange an alternative date, with gift vouchers and refunds also available, it said.

However, as the Mid Hants Railway relies on ticket income and donations to maintain the heritage line, it has pleaded for customers to consider donating the value of their tickets “to help during these financially-uncertain times”.