South Tyneside Festival Cancelled
Due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis, the much-loved South Tyneside Festival has been stood down this year.
This year's three-month programme of family-friendly entertainment was due to take place over June, July and August.
The Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Norman Dick is a huge supporter of the festival alongside the Mayoress, Jean Williamson.
The Mayor said: "We know how popular the festival is among residents and visitors. However, after very careful consideration, the Council has had to make the difficult decision to cancel this year's programme of events due to the uncertainty over when social distancing measures will be lifted.
"We know this will be a huge disappointment to all those involved. But we also know you will understand that the safety of all our festival goers, artists, participants and staff are of paramount importance and that this is a necessary measure in line with the Government's advice to try and limit the spread of coronavirus."
The annual South Tyneside Festival is one of the best-loved events in the Borough's events calendar. Key events include the carnival-like Summer Parade involving the community, as well as Proms in the Park, Kids Fun-fest, brass bands and live music at The Amphitheatre. Musicians including Ella Henderson, Will Young, Shalamar, The Fizz and The South were due to perform in the festival's four Sunday Concerts.
The Mayor said: "Our small team of events staff is currently working incredibly hard behind the scenes to reschedule as much as possible for 2021. This includes the line-up for our four Sunday Concerts.
"While we had hoped we could go ahead this year, we will be working to make next year's programme the best yet and look forward to seeing you all there."
Events staff are working with agents, artists and ticket agencies to reschedule the Sunday Concerts for 2021. Wherever possible, the same artists will be rebooked for next year and, in this case, already purchased tickets will remain valid for the rescheduled dates.
For those who would prefer a refund, further information on how to do this will be made available in due course, once the rescheduled line up has been announced.
The Mayor added: "We would ask people to bear with us as we make the arrangements regarding this and thank everyone for their patience and understanding during these unprecedented times."
For regular updates about the South Tyneside Festival visit www.southtynesidefestival.co.uk or follow on social media: Facebook (South Tyneside Events) or Twitter @stynesideevents