ORGANISERS of the Bishopton Art and Craft Fair have cancelled this year’s event amid fears over the spread of coronavirus.

The event had been scheduled to take place on Saturday, March 21 at Bishopton Community Centre.

Ronnie Dukes, member of the Bishopton Art Group, said: "With much regret, having taken account of the current situation regarding the Coronavirus pandemic and advice taken, the Committee of Bishopton Art Group has made the decision to cancel the Bishopton Art and Craft Fair planned for Saturday 21st March at Bishopton Community Centre.

"We would like to apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

"The organisers will be in contact directly with the stall holders."

The decision to cancel the annual event comes after Nicola Sturgeon told MSPs at First Minister’s Questions on Thursday that it would be "inappropriate" for the country to "continue as normal."

Ms Sturgeon is to recommend the cancellation of gatherings of more than 500 people across the country, in a bid to protect frontline services, starting from Monday.

The cancellation is further evidence of the precautionary measures being taken in Renfrewshire and elsewhere to combat the coronavirus threat.