For the second time in 56 year history, the annual Steam Rally in Stradbally has been cancelled.
The event was previously cancelled in 2007 when torrential rain left the field, which is the site used for the Electric Picnic, waterlogged.
However, this time the event, scheduled to take place on August 1, 2 and 3, has fallen victim to Coronavirus.
Confirmed the news, chairman Nigel Glynn said the decision had been made in the interest of safety.
He said: “Hi all, as a nation, we are living through unprecedented times. What we collectively decide to do now will influence the impact of COVID-19 in Ireland, in the weeks and months ahead.
“From the perspective of the Irish Steam Preservation Society the best action we can take is to heed the government advice.
“Our utmost priority is to protect our volunteers, exhibitors, traders and the general public that support us each and every year.
“Therefore it is with much regret that we cancel the National Steam Rally Stradbally, Co Laois for 2020.
“Hopefully and together with the Rally Committee’s support, the 2021 National Steam Rally, Stradbally will go full steam ahead.”
SEE ALSO – Laois Councillor says it would be ‘madness’ for Electric Picnic to go ahead in 2020
