Sunderland Airshow and River Festival cancelled after 'difficult decision' due to coronavirus

Sunderland City Council has confirmed that one of the city’s most popular summer events have been cancelled as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

The event – which would have been the 32nd airshow – was due to be held on Friday, July 24, Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26.

But now council bosses have said the airshow will now be held next year.

Sunderland River Festival, which was due to be held on the weekend of Saturday, August 15 and Sunday, August 16, has also been cancelled amidst the pandemic.

Celebrating the city's maritime heritage, it would have been the second time the festival has taken place.

No details of the line-ups or attractions had been confirmed for either event.

Sunderland Council bosses said cancelling both events was a ‘difficult decision’ but said it was a decision taken with the wellbeing of communities in mind.

Sunderland City Council's Assistant Director of Culture and Events, Victoria French said: "Following careful consideration, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel some of our biggest and best loved events that were scheduled for the summer months.

"We understand that this news will cause disappointment for lots of people but hope that everyone will appreciate that the health and wellbeing of our communities is at the forefront of our decision-making process.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year."

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