One of Norfolk's most loved summer events has been cancelled for the second year running, its organisers say.

Sandringham Flower Show was cancelled last year for only the second time in its peacetime history because of coronavirus.

In a statement today, the show committee said: "The committee and trustees of the Sandringham Flower Show confirm with great sadness that the 2021 show, scheduled for July, will not now take place in view of the enormous uncertainty still surrounding all matters to do with the Covid-19 pandemic."

Chairman David Reeve added: “While we are all desperately sad not to be returning to the showground this year as we had hoped to do, we do not feel that we can mount the show while still protecting the welfare of our visitors, exhibitors, competitors and volunteers. We hope that the easing of the Covid-19 pandemic over the course of 2021 will allow us to welcome everybody back in July 2022."

Eastern Daily Press: Thousands attend the show each summerThousands attend the show each summer (Image: Ian Burt)

Thousands pack into the royal estate for the show, which is traditionally held on the last Wednesday in July and sees the rolling parklands filled with gardens, stalls, marquees and exhibits.

They include Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall, who arrive in an open-topped carriage before setting off on a tour of marquees and exhibits.

The event raises tens of thousands for charity each year, with the money being given to deserving causes in and around Norfolk.

Its cancellation follows that of the Royal Norfolk Show, which has also postponed until 2022, meaning two of the largest summer events to be staged in the county, both with strong royal connections, are both off.

Buckingham Palace has also announced that the Queen will not be staging any garden parties during 2021.

It is understood that with deadlines approaching for committing to the garden parties, it was not possible to plan how they would be feasible, taking into account Covid-19 precautions.

Contractors involved in staging the large gatherings, where around 27,000 cups of tea, 20,000 sandwiches and 20,000 slices of cake are consumed, have been informed.