THE annual Bonfire Night celebrations on Midsummer Common have been cancelled in light of the ongoing risk of COVID-19, it was today announced.

An annual highlight for many years, Cambridge’s Bonfire Night celebrations typically attract upwards of 20,000 spectators to enjoy fireworks, a fun fair, and traditional bonfire on Midsummer Common.

This year, ongoing restrictions on the operation of large-scale public events have meant the event cannot safely go ahead.

"We are very disappointed to have to cancel Bonfire Night, which we had hoped could go ahead this year,” said Cllr Lewis Herbert, Leader of Cambridge City Council and Executive Councillor for Strategy and External Partnerships.

“However, in light of the most up to date guidance, we recognised that having such a large number of people come together on Midsummer Common could not be organised safely.”

“The current guidance on social distancing and mass gatherings means that it is simply not possible to stage the event. Our primary concern is the safety of all city residents, and we all need to do our bit to prevent transmission of COVID-19.”

With the recent announcement that gatherings other than family groups will be limited to six for the foreseeable future, the council will be sharing general advice about ways to celebrate Bonfire Night safely at home.