Fairground at popular Houghton Feast scrapped due to rise in Covid-19 cases

Pictures from the firework display at last year's Houghton Feast. This year the fireworks display will not go ahead

Organisers revealed the funfair has been scrapped following a discussion with the operator although the new-look Houghton Feast at Home event will still go ahead.

The ancient feast, which takes place every October, is thought to date back to 1200s.

From a traditional ox roast, fireworks displays and carnival parades, the festival comes back bigger and better every year.

But the global pandemic, which has cancelled fairs and events across the country, has led to some changes this year.

Posting on Facebook, organisers said: “We have spoken to the Murphy family about the Houghton Feast fairground today, and while the other Houghton Feast at Home events will be going ahead as planned, the funfair will sadly not be a part of this year's festival owing to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

“Our thoughts are very much with the country's showmen and women during this very difficult time for their industry, and we look forward to welcoming them back to Houghton for 'all the fun of the fair' in 2021.”

Organisers clarified in the comments that the local rise in Covid-19 cases and the outbreak linked to Burnside Working Men’s Club has impacted on the decision.

Festival events, which take place between October 2 and 11, include a virtual opening ceremony and the Big Houghton Feast Quiz which the community can enjoy from home.

The Beehive, in Sunniside, will provide the traditional ox sandwiches by pre-order to eat in or takeaway.

See the full programme here.

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