Coronavirus sees Whisky Live London and Gin Live London postponed

Spirits trade events Whisky Live London and Gin Live London have been postponed as the coronavirus outbreak in the UK escalates. 

The events - organised by Whisky Magazine - were expected to bring thousands of guests to the Honourable Artillery Company in London on 27 and 28 March.

But the organisers have made the difficult decision to postpone the events amid concern for the safety of guests, exhibitors, speakers and its staff. 

The World Spirits Conference and the Whisky Magazine Awards Dinner, also organised by the team behind Whisky Magazine and due to take place next week, have also been postponed.

Managing director Damian Riley-Smith said: "It is very disappointing to have to postpone our series of March events, however we are monitoring the situation daily and look forward to announcing new dates just as soon as we possibly can. We thank you very much for your support throughout this extraordinary period."

While mass gatherings in the UK have not been banned, Prime Minister Boris Johnson is encouraging people to adhere to "social distancing" principles and has discouraged large gatherings.

Many organisations have pre-empted a formal ban and cancelled or postponed events, while some leisure and entertainment venues have also closed their doors.

19 March 2020 - Bethany Whymark