THE organisers of a series of drive-in Christmas movies which were set to be screened at Loch Lomond Shores have vowed "we will be back next year" after the 2020 event was cancelled.

A packed schedule of festive films had been due to take place throughout December but itison confirmed on Tuesday that the event will not be going ahead as a result of the ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

The firm warned on Monday that its programme would not be allowed to go ahead if Level 3 restrictions remained in place in West Dunbartonshire, and confirmed the news shortly after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said there would be no change to the coronavirus protection measures in place in the area.

A statement said: "We’re so sorry for the short notice, but it has just been confirmed today that we are unable to go ahead.

"This year, the Scottish Government has been actively encouraging drive-in movies as a safe way to allow families and couples to have fun, including up until October.

"Despite our ongoing conversations with the government (and the fact drive-ins are permitted in the rest of the UK under harsher restrictions), the Scottish Government has done a U-turn, meaning drive-in movies cannot go ahead.

"We are so disappointed not to be able to go ahead with an extremely safe activity for families to enjoy, particularly at a time when we all need safe ways to have some Christmas fun and respite."

Ticket holders should have received an email confirming the cancellation and advising that refunds have been processed, although customers are asked to allow up to five working days for money to be returned to accounts.

The statement added: "To all of you who were planning on attending, working at or supplying our event - we want you to know how grateful we are for your support and we will be back next year!"