Literary festival announces cancellation

Thursday 18 June 2020

This year’s literary festival has been cancelled due to the pandemic - but organisers have already vowed to bring the long-running event back next year.

Due to the uncertainty created by the virus outbreak, the team behind the Jersey Festival of Words say they had “little choice” but to cancel what would have been the island's sixth consecutive festival.

The festival has been running for five years and showcases local and visiting literary talents as well as featuring an educational programme for school students.

Running over several days, the festival hosts events in local venues including the Jersey Opera House, the Jersey Arts Centre and the Library. 

Previous speakers include Jeremy Paxman, Richard Dawkins, Jenny Éclair and Michael Morpurgo.

Speaking about the decision, Festival Chairman Jennifer Bridge said: “The decision was reached after much consideration and consultation with the festival’s partner venues.

"Given social distancing requirements, travel restrictions and future un-certainty surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic we had little choice but to put this year’s festival on hold.”

Pictured: The festival normally takes place across local venues, including the Arts Centre. 

Ms Bridge continued: “Obviously we’re disappointed. This year’s line-up was looking particularly strong, though we’re pleased to have had some authors confirming that they are willing to attend next year’s festival instead.

“We’re also extremely grateful to our various sponsors for their understanding, many of whom have agreed to extend their support of the Festival of Words to when we return in September 2021.”