An annual regional media awards has been cancelled due to there being no chance to hold a ceremony as usual.

The Birmingham Press Club has decided to cancel this year’s Midlands Media Awards because of the ongoing coronavirus situation.

The Press Club was due to hold the awards on 2 October, but says it has been left with “no other choice”.

The scheme will return next year.

Club chairman Llewela Bailey, pictured, said: “We were forced to cancel the Midlands Media Student Awards earlier in the year so to put off our proposed October event is doubly frustrating. However, in the circumstances we feel we have no other choice.

“I appreciate some ‘virtual’ awards have already been held elsewhere – and that our regional journalists, photographers and broadcasters may be disappointed at the cancellation.

“But it is our opinion that it is the excitement of the actual awards ceremony, the camaraderie that exists at such events, and the networking opportunities which are so valuable for competitors and sponsors alike, that make the awards presentation evening so worthwhile.

“It is our intention that both events will be back next year – bigger and better than ever.”

Amazon UK Services was due to be the main sponsor of this year’s awards.

Neil Williams, community relations manager at Amazon UK services, said: “Naturally, we are very disappointed that an opportunity to showcase the achievements of the region’s media sector has been cancelled.

“However, we look forward to the future when we will be able to continue our association with the Press Club and its flagship events.”

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