Hartlepool Carnival cancelled for first time since the war due to ongoing pandemic

Volunteers announced the ongoing outbreak and social distancing rules make it impossible for this year’s carnival to go ahead.

It is the first time since the Second World War that the event has been cancelled.

The carnival was due to take place from Thursday, July 30, with the opening of Murphy’s Fun Fair on the Town Moor, until Saturday, August 8, with the closing fancy dress parade which attract thousands of visitors over the 10 days.

Organisers say they are bitterly disappointed but look forward to better times.

The Raft Race is currently still due to take place on the Headland on Sunday, August 30.

In a statement Hartlepool Carnival Committee said: “We have had to take the decision to cancel this year’s carnival due to this ongoing pandemic which I’m sure everyone will understand the nature and logistics of this due to social distancing it’s just not possible to sustain.

“However if things do dramatically change we will do our upmost to stage what we can do.

“We are also communicating with Murphy’s Funfairs regarding [the] ongoing situation.

“These are unprecedented times and the first time since the war that our carnival hasn’t taken place.

“Our other events as (sic) the raft race are still planned but will review as time goes on.

“The Committee hopes everyone will understand and if the guidance changes we will be ready to go.

“Stay safe everyone better times ahead.”

Hartlepool Carnival is the latest in a long line of local public events that have fallen victim to the coronavirus outbreak.

Greatham Feast, due to take place in late June, has been forced to rule out its traditional parade and fete day plus other community events.

Instead, residents are being asked to decorate their homes and wear fancy dress and share photos of themselves.

All major fundraising events of Alice House Hospice have been postponed until the end of June including its Purple Week, Memory Stroll, Family Fun Day and Colour Run.

And it says it is likely that events beyond June will also be affected.

Related: Durham Brass Festival cancelled by pandemic

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