Summer festival cancelled over heath and safety fears but organisers hope fun will return next year

The annual fun day due to be held on Saturday, July 25 was cancelled because of safety concerns and uncertainty over what the guidelines will be.

The provisional date set for the event to return is July 24 next year, but the town council has not ruled out holding another event this year if possible under the rules.

South Kirkby and Moorthorpe Town Council clerk Anne Moran said: "The town council has had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year’s festival event, unfortunately with Covid-19 a number other events including plays and children’s Easter party have also had to be cancelled.

"The town council's priority at this time has to be the health andsafety of our residents and we do not feel organising large community events is appropriate at this time.

"We are hopeful some of the plays and events planned later in the year will go-ahead however these will continue to be assessed closer to the planned dates.

"We understand that this is disappointing but please be understanding that this is a difficult time, keep up to date on our Facebook or website pages for latest information."

The improvements to the tennis courts were approved by the Town Council and whilst the work had commenced this had to be placed on hold due to COVID19 these works resume mid-June to be completed towards end of June."

Two town council regeneration projects that were postponed because of the pandemic are set resume.

Duck pond refurbishment is set to begin this week and work on the tennis court at the recreation ground is due to commence June 8.

Work is expected to take two weeks.

Last year’s festival bill featured Robbie Williams, Madness and Meat Loaf tribute acts alongside stalls, food, attractions and entertainment.

Gatherings ranging from family barbecues to major music festivals and sporting events have been wiped off the calendar due to the crisis.

Pontefract Racecourse is set to be one of the first to return with behind-closed-doors racing in line to resume from later this month.