ORGANISERS of Abbfest 2022 say they are heartbroken at the death of the Queen but vowed to carry on with the popular event.

A spokesperson said: ‘We are heartbroken at the death of Elizabeth the Great on Thursday, September 8, at Balmoral Castle.

‘The Abbfest team sends our deepest condolences to the Royal Family, and we welcome Charles III, our new King.

‘The Trustees of Abbfest have decided that Abbfest will go ahead on the 16-18 September as planned and should the date of the funeral change from the expected day of 19 September, we will adapt accordingly.

‘The Comedy Surgery will take place on Thursday, September 15. Numbers of tickets are limited and selling fast.

‘Fine weather is forecast for an event in which we will remember her Majesty the Queen and celebrate her amazing life. A condolence tree will be in situ for those who wish to add their condolences and the ‘leaves’ will be added to the Abbotskerswell Parish condolence book.

‘Come and join us for what will be a unique and poignant Abbfest and help us to raise funds for Charities and good causes.

‘In years to date we have raised over £250,000 at this completely volunteer run festival.

‘You can expect over 200 beers and ciders, gin, Pimm’s, prosecco and wine, wonderful street food, lots of chefs, activities, and stalls galore.

‘We have Janine Jensen from BBC Spotlight opening the event on Saturday morning and have gone all out for your musical entertainment, with fabulous bands with an upgraded sound system.

‘There are classic cars, an amazing raffle and bingo (not in the same area) on the Sunday and a huge array of fun activities all weekend.

More information is at www.abbfest.org where you can buy your tickets.