Trade body Scottish Bakers has postponed its annual conference and the judging day for its awards.

The group said the coronavirus pandemic had reached the point where it was necessary to take decisive action, leading to the postponement of the conference and awards weekend that had been due to take place at the Hilton Glasgow hotel on 8 and 9 May.

The Scottish Baker of the Year Product Judging Day has also been postponed.

“We believe that postponement is the sensible course of action given the circumstances and increasing concern being expressed by our many supporters and members about committing to travel and participation in events,” explained chief executive Alasdair Smith.

Scottish Bakers does not yet have a rescheduled date but is working with the Hilton to explore options and will update members and supporters as new arrangements are made.

Conference tickets already booked and paid for through Scottish Bakers will be refunded, as will hotel accommodation at the Hilton.

“We have not taken this decision lightly but feel we must act in accordance with emerging advice and restrictions on larger gatherings,” added Smith.

Scottish Bakers is keeping online voting for the Customer Choice Awards open until Sunday 5 April 2020 as planned.

“Once there is clarity on when the Coronavirus threat is diminishing we hope to be able to look at how we can still recognise and reward those members who have attracted public votes,” said Smith

Scottish Bakers members who have already submitted product entries online do not need to take further action at this stage.

Other events have also been postponed until further notice, keep up to date with the latest here.