Tavistock's Goose Fair cancelled for second year running
Tavistock Town Council says the decision, due to Covid, is one of the most difficult it has had to make
Last updated 15th Sep 2021
Officials have confirmed the historic Goose Fair in Tavistock has been cancelled for the second year in a row.
The event, known locally as Goosey Fair, is usually held on the second Wednesday of October.
However, due to the potential spread of coronavirus and financial pressures after the pandemic, it has been called off.
Tavistock Town Council thanked supporters, describing the decision as one of the most difficult it has ever had to make.
In a statement posted on its website, Tavistock Town Council said: "After careful consideration, on 14th September the Town Council reluctantly announced the cancellation of those parts of Goose Fair 2021 which it normally organises (Plymouth Road, Bedford Square and surrounding areas).
"Having reviewed the position, it was evident certain of the safety measures recommended by Government were not achievable because of the particular nature of, and rights of access over, the site on which the Goose Fair operates.
"In making its decision the Council recognised the uncertainty of the current situation regarding the pandemic, and the need to ensure the health and public safety of residents and visitors in situations where large numbers of people attend and mingle at outside events in a restricted area.
"It also acknowledged the adverse and deteriorating incidence of Covid 19 in Devon as most recently assessed by the public health authorities (‘Devon’s health and social care system is under extreme pressure due to high demand for services and the number of staff and patients affected by COVID-19’) and the accompanying expectation Autumn will place more pressure on the NHS, including the seasonal resurgence of flu and other respiratory diseases as well as Covid infections.
"It therefore came to the view that it was regrettably not possible for the Town Council and its partners to deliver the event with an acceptable level of assurance.
"This is one of the most difficult decisions the Council has had to make in a long time, to all those who have supported Tavistock Goose Fair over the years we are sorry for the disappointment, but please be assured we look forward to welcoming Goose Fair back next year".