Bamburgh Festival scheduled for August is latest Northumberland event to be cancelled

The event was due to be held on August 22 with organisers hoping to build on the success of last year’s inaugural festival.

However, a statement from the festival committee explained: “A month ago, we were all busy preparing for this year’s Bamburgh Festival. But now, in light of the ongoing public health crisis, the committee has taken the very sad but unavoidable decision that this year’s festival cannot go ahead as planned.

“We take our public health responsibilities very seriously and with the Government advice surrounding mass gatherings, social distancing, and unnecessary travel, we felt there was no other option.

“Whilst this news is very disappointing indeed, the health, safety and well-being of our traders, volunteers, visitors and local community is of paramount importance to us.

“We would like to take this time to thank everyone involved with the Bamburgh Festival; we will be contacting all suppliers, traders, sponsors and volunteers over the next few days.

“Our thoughts are now with the doctors, nurses, health and social care professionals on the front line; and to everyone working so hard to keep the country going, whose courage in the face of adversity is an inspiration to us all.

“We look forward to seeing you at the Bamburgh Festival in 2021, which will be a fantastic event. In the meantime, we wish you all the very best in these unprecedented times. Look after each other and stay safe.”

Thousands of visitors attended last year’s event held in glorious sunshine which helped to showcase the village at its very best.

Highlights on Castle Green included craft and produce competitions; live music; fairground attractions; face painting; miniature donkeys; food and drink; and a trade marquee bursting with local produce and gifts of all sorts.

The festival culminated with a dog show, followed by the competition prize awards; the raffle draw; and a very lively auction, in which much of the winning competition produce was sold. All proceeds are used to fund future festivals and village charitable organisations.

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