A FIREWORKS display has been cancelled after becoming a 'victim of its own success'.

Safety fears have led to Sadberge’s annual Bonfire Night celebrations being called off following problems in previous years with overcrowding, irresponsible parking and families flocking from nearby towns to the village.

For more than a decade, residents have gathered every November to enjoy a colourful display, refreshments and entertainment at an event supported by Sadberge’s parish council and volunteers.

However, a surge in visitors – from around 600 in 2015 to more than 1,400 last year – has put its long term future at risk.

Consultation with experts saw organisers advised it would not be practical to implement traffic management measures for the event, with a ‘ticket only’ policy also ruled out over difficulties in controlling access.

At a recent meeting of Sadberge Parish Council, the reluctant cancellation of the 2018 display was announced, with all involved parties having come to the conclusion that it was no longer possible to organise a safe event.

Organiser Dave Elmer said the announcement was made with a heavy heart, adding: “It was not an easy decision to make but I believe strongly that in the current situation it was the correct choice.”

Mr Elmer reportedly told the meeting that the aim had traditionally been to provide enjoyment for Sadberge residents, “not to put on a Bonfire Night fireworks display for the whole of Darlington”.

  • Anyone with ideas as to how the parish council could provide a safe event in future can be submitted to Mr Elmer by emailing dave7ae@gmail.com or calling 07941 612409.