diff --git a/core/__init__.py b/core/__init__.py
index 92ada79..870c14c 100644
--- a/core/__init__.py
+++ b/core/__init__.py
@@ -410,5 +410,9 @@ def write_json_file(data, path):
     path_backup = path + '.bkp'
     with open(path_temp, 'w') as f:
         f.write(json.dumps(data))  # write to temp file to ensure no data loss if exception raised here
+    try:
+        os.remove(path_backup)
+    except OSError:
+        pass
     os.rename(path, path_backup)  # create backup file in case rename is unsuccessful
     os.rename(path_temp, path)