London Book Fair, which has become an increasingly popular event for licensees and agents looking for the newest and latest publishing properties, has been cancelled due to escalating spread of coronavirus across Europe.

Due to run 10-12 March, the annual event, which brings together publishers, agents, writers and booksellers from around the world, will no longer take place in 2020.

In a statement, organiser Reed Exhibitions says: “It is with reluctance that we have taken the decision not to go ahead with this year’s event.”

Organisers say they are following UK governmental guidelines and understand many who wish to visit the event form overseas will face travel restrictions and potentially put themselves at risk of contracting or spreading the contagion.

“We recognise that business has to continue. With this in mind, we will of course support and collaborate with exhibitors and visitors to keep our world moving during this difficult period,” the statement adds.

“We thank all those from the UK and a multitude of other countries who have prepared over the last year to deliver what promised to be a wonderful book fair showcasing, as ever, the exciting best of the global book industry. 

"The London Book Fair will return, better than ever, in 2021.”