AFTER an emergency meeting of the Benarty Events Group regarding the Coronavirus/Covid-19 crisis, the group have decided to cancel several events immediately.

A decision was taken last week to immediately suspend The BEG Companion Club, run on Fridays at the Community Centre, to ensure health, safety and welfare of the elderly members of club.

At Tuesday’s meeting the BEG went further with the cancellation of their two of their major events, The Pipe Band Competition on Saturday June 20 and Annual Gala the following week on Sunday June 28.

The group have also decided to suspend the BEG Community Lottery until further notice.

These decisions have been made in line with Government guidelines

“These decisions were taken after much deliberation with various factions, but we feel the health and welfare of the people that would attending these events was paramount. The decisions were taken with a heavy heart as we know how popular the events are,” said chairman Eddie Easson

A decision regarding Rockore and other later events will be taken at a later date.

The BEG still hope that something can be done regarding the Gala at a later date although it may be a smaller event.

Like all other areas this a worrying time for the people of the Benarty area with people having to self isolate.

The BEG intend to work with other groups within the area to ease the burden. If any person or family are in need of any assistance please don’t hesitate to call The Benarty Emergency Response Group. The BEG will be helping where possible.

Added Eddie: “Our wee simple important message to everyone is follow the guidelines as best you can.

"Be safe and look after yourself. If you can keep in contact with family, the less fortunate and the elderly it would be fantastic.

"This is our biggest peacetime crisis but together we will get through it.”

The Benarty Events Group would like to apologise for any inconvenience these suspensions are causing.