Downton Cuckoo Fair 2021 cancelled

Covid-19 already put paid to this year's Cuckoo Fair an event that traditionally attracts around 20,000 people to the village of Downton.

Now organisers say it's just not possible to run the 2021 event a covid safe way.

In a statement the Cuckoo Fair Committee say there's "too much uncertainty, potential risk, additional complexities, and extra cost for it to be a viable, enjoyable event."

The Committee stress they've had to make a decision based on the current information and guidance.

"We are very aware that the Covid situation and associated guidance will change in the next six months, hopefully for the better, but we would normally be planning, making bookings and outlaying costs now, so needed to make an unambiguous decision based on the current information and guidance."

"More importantly, and at the forefront of our minds, is the welfare of the villagers and people who live locally to Downton, as well as all the volunteers and contractors who make the Fair happen. We are particularly mindful of the potential risks from an influx of people and we want everyone to stay safe and well."

"We know that this will not be welcome news for those groups, organisations and societies for whom the Cuckoo Fair is their annual opportunity to raise significant funds. It will undoubtedly also be a blow to all our wonderful performers and stall holders. We would like to assure you that we didn't take this decision lightly. A Fair with significantly fewer visitors, limited stalls and no entertainment would simply not be one which we are proud to share with you all."

It's only the second time in forty years the Downton Cuckoo Fair will not be celebrating the arrival of the Cuckoo in Spring!

The fair dates back to 1530 when the the cuckoo was let into the village to mark Spring and the custom of May Day.

The Downton Cuckoo Fair was reborn in 1980 thanks to the dedication of a group of local people and is now held on the Saturday closest to the early May bank holiday.

It's run to help local organisations and groups and it estimated to have raised more than £1m.

The event is a huge fundraiser, for many local schools like Downton Primary, Hale Primary and the Trafalgar School.