Campaigners say they are "grateful" a Colchester fireworks display has been cancelled after organisers vowed it was set to come back with a bang.
Colchester Rugby Club’s highly anticipated fireworks display on November 3 has been cancelled, organisers confirmed on Friday.
The club advertised a grand comeback after silent fireworks were held last year, which left many fans disappointed.
In a brief statement, the club said: “It is with much regret that due to unreasonable pressure from the local equine community, the executive committee of Colchester RFC have taken the decision to cancel the fireworks event at Raven Park this year.
“Refunds for tickets already purchased will be made automatically.”
Campaigners welcomed the decision to cancel the event following concerns over its impact on animals near the venue.
Mark Kennedy, 57, of Redwings Horse Sanctuary rescue charity, which has rescue horses near the rugby club, said the announcement about the return of the Bonfire Night display had left owners terrified for their animals and other people’s safety.
He said: “In no way do we think the rugby club should not be able to host events, they do amazing work for fundraisers and charity.
“They were talking about a loud spectacle, and we are right next door to the club. We are grateful they took the decision to cancel the event, it was the right decision for me.”
Mr Kennedy, who has been rescue horse Vincent's guardian for about 13 years, said not all horses could be brought into a stable during the fireworks, and even those inside could be panicked by the noise and flashes.
“I and other horse owners are terrified by the thought of what would happen to our horses. They are like family to us, so we would do everything to protect them.
“It’s not just the horses but also owners and others who can get seriously injured if a horse breaks out of a stable, through fences and gets on a public road when it is blindsided by panic.”
He said last year’s silent display had causing less disturbance for the animals.
Redwings chief executive Lynn Cutress said: "We welcome the news that Colchester Rugby Club has cancelled its loud fireworks display and would like to thank the committee sincerely for taking the very real concerns of local horse and animal owners into consideration.
“The phrase ‘unreasonable pressure from the equine community’ is disappointing however, reflecting a lack of understanding around the issue and entrenching a ‘them and us’ situation, which makes it harder to re-establish community connection and find a balance where we can all continue our traditions and celebrations in a way that is as safe and enjoyable as possible for everyone.
Colchester Rural North councillor Thomas Rowe had tried to smooth the dispute between residents, the club and campaigners.
He said: “Bonfire Night is an English tradition, and these events raise a lot of money for clubs, schools and other charitable organisations who put them on.
“I deeply sympathise with their loss of revenue and the wasted effort that goes into organising. I hope an agreement can be reached in the future that is favourable to both sides.
“I tried to find a compromise but it seems this late in the day it wasn’t possible and the rugby club took the decision to cancel it.
“I have suggested that next year, the council could offer the undeveloped old rugby club land.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel