Two huge events on Merseyside have been cancelled due to coronavirus and neither were due to take place until September.
Today, Sefton Council confirmed this year's Southport Air Show and British Musical Fireworks Championship will not take place.
The cancellations are a big blow for the town, with each event bringing in thousands of visitors from across the country and generating millions of pounds for the local economy.
The Air Show was set to take place over the weekend of September 11-13 and the fireworks from September 25-27. Both events will return next year.
Other events cancelled in the town this year, including the Southport Food and Drink Festival and the Southport Flower Show.
Cllr Marion Atkinson, Sefton Council’s Labour Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Skills, says, “Every autumn we welcome thousands of people to Southport to enjoy these two major events in the town; the Southport Air Show and the British Musical Fireworks Championship.
“However, as the latest government guidance on the next stages of its Covid-19 response indicate, it will not be possible or responsible for large-scale events to take place.
“We understand this news will disappoint a lot of people, but we all have to work hard to protect the health and the wellbeing of our communities, and the safety of everyone involved including visitors, exhibitors, traders, staff, contractors, and the many more who contribute and play a part in delivering these much-loved events.
“These are the factors at the very forefront of our decision. We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.”
