Newbury - Racecourse Fireworks Display cancelled for 2016

[Administrator]

The annual firework display organised by the Newbury Lions and held at Newbury Racecourse has been cancelled for 2016.

The following statement has been reproduced from their website:

The Lions Club of Newbury will not be holding its popular fireworks event at Newbury Racecourse this year. The event has been held at the racecourse for over 30 years and has been enjoyed by local people and those travelling from further afield. Many thousands of pounds have been raised by Newbury Lions Club at this charity event for the benefit of local people in need.

A spokesperson for the Lions Club said "We very much regret having to take this decision, but we have been unable to agree suitable terms with Newbury Racecourse. Over the years we have had magnificent support from the racecourse and we couldn't have raised so much money, for aiding some of the most vulnerable people in the Newbury area, without their help. Increased restrictions for health & safety and other concerns are understandable given the property development happening at the racecourse. As a registered charity, we have a duty of care and the Trustees feel unable to use money, given to Newbury Lions to help local people, to pay upfront costs when the success of the event depends so much on the weather. We have been working closely with the racecourse to try to find a workable solution but, regretfully, we have decided not to hold the event this year. We are, however, looking to hold a fireworks event in 2017."

Recognised as the biggest and best Fireworks display in the Newbury area, the event is run entirely by volunteers. Sponsorship from local firms has dwindled in the current economic climate and now covers only a small percentage of the costs of staging the event. Newbury Lions Club hopes to be able to secure a venue and sufficient sponsorship for a re-launch of this popular event in 2017