2020 ís getting cancelled. The posh seaside town of Knokke-Heist in Belgium will host no events this year. The reason is obviously coronavirus COVID-19.

Mayor count Leopold Lippens is adamant. It will be impossible to host major events this year. These include Knokke Hippique in July, Kneistival in July, the International Fireworks Festival in August and the Zoute Grand Prix in October.

Count Lippens says it’s not his decision but suppliers tell him it will be practically impossible.

Tourism is the major source of income for the town and its hotel and catering sector. Beach bars will be possible, the mayor says.

Lippens has been critical of the Federal Government from the start of the crisis. He doesn’t want to wait the ministers to decide.