A FAMILY-friendly music festival which was due to take place in Winchester has once again been cancelled, with little explanation.

Organisers of Winchestival announced the decision on their social media on Tuesday to the disappointment of fans.

A short statement posted on the event’s Facebook page said: “We are sorry to announce that Winchestival will not be happening this year.

“Watch this space for future events. Thanks for your support so far.”

And festival-goers took to social media to air their misery at the news, with many hoping that the event will return next year.

Annie Richards posted: “Sad to hear this and hope that maybe it will make a return next year. Must have been such hard work for everyone involved. Thank you so much for three fabulous years!!!!”

And Kate Barrow Adams said: “I am so sorry to hear this. I hope you will be back in the future.”

Past performers at the event also wrote to the organisers, with Ben Dlugokecki saying: “Noooo! I hope you’re all ok, it’s a great event and it was fab to play with Rubik’s cube for the last two years. A great experience for the young people of Osborne School, Winchester.”

And Pyjama Drama Southampton East added: “Ah such sad news - we loved being involved last year.”

When approached by the Chronicle, festival organisers said there was not “really have too much to say about it”.

The announcement comes after the event was cancelled in September last year after the lead singer of the headline act was unable to perform.

Blaine Harrison, of the Mystery Jets, had to go into hospital for urgent treatment which required an operation.

At that time organisers said there are no immediate plans to reschedule.

Winchestival was launched in the summer of 2017, with the aim of showcasing well-known artists and the very best in local up-and-coming talent, as well as national and international comedians and the very best in street food.