Sheffield Fayre cancelled over Covid-19 concerns

The free event, normally held at Norfolk Heritage Park, was due to take place on Monday, August 31.

But, Sheffield Council has announced today that it will not go ahead this year as the event is not ticketed, leaving the authority unable to put correct safety measures in place to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Councillor Mary Lea, cabinet member for culture, parks and leisure at Sheffield Council, said: “In what would have been its 19th year, I know many will have been looking forward to our free bank holiday fun day, but as we’ve seen across the country, large scale events pose many risks and challenges.

“As people can freely come in and out of the park without a controlled ticketing system, it would be impossible for us to put the required measures in place to safely hold the event.”

The event attracts thousands of people each year, including dozens of green-fingered growers who attend the popular horticultural show.

Coun Lea added: “We plan to be back next year though, with everyone’s favourite attractions. And with so many people finding a passion for gardening and growing during lockdown, I’m sure the horticultural show will see lots of new talent when we return.”

Sheffield Council has kept the city’s public events under review throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and is currently working with its partners to establish what can safely take place in line with government guidance.

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