Hartlepool fairground to return to the Headland but organisers say it will be 'Covid secure'

Murphy’s Funfairs which put on the fairground during Hartlepool Carnival each summer previously cancelled this year's fair due to have taken place between July 30 and August 8.

But following the easing of lockdown restrictions and putting a number of safety measures in place, it has announced a smaller fair on the Headland from Wednesday, September 2, to Sunday, September 6.

John Murphy, of the family fairground, said: “We felt that the Headland Carnival was just too big an event this year with what’s going on at the moment. It is not just the fairground, it is all the other events around it.

"We have decided for the first week in September with the kids going back to open with a quarter sized fair.

"It is a lot smaller and will be open for less hours than what we would normally operate.

"We will have Covid restrictions in place on site and for each piece of equipment.”

Those measures include hand sanitiser stations and operating a one way system throughout the fair, track and trace, and social distance barriers and distancing measures on all rides.

Rides will be regularly cleaned and sanitised, there will be limited numbers of people allowed in at any time, and all staff will be wear PPE (personal protective equipment).

Among the rides and attractions visitors will be able to enjoy will be the waltzers, dodgems, Twister, Crazy Frog, Experience Miami, Freak Out and Family Ferris Wheel.

There will also be a selection of small children rides, game stands and catering units. Rides will cost £2-£2.50.

Mr Murphy added: “With these dark times we want to bring a little bit of enjoyment to Hartlepool like we always have done. That is the main aim.

"We are also keen to get back on the road and operate like we have for so many years.

"We are grateful to Hartlepool Borough Council for letting us come. We always get good support from the people of Hartlepool.

The fair will be open 4pm-8.30pm Wednesday to Friday, 1pm-8.30pm Saturday and 1pm till late on the Sunday.

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