WEATHER warnings have forced the cancellation of an arts event at Preston Park tonight.

‘Nightfall 2019 – By The Light Of The Moon’ is a self-guided moon-themed light installation trail of artworks around the park, complemented with music, performance and storytelling.

But due to local weather warnings and forecast of 50mph winds, the organisers have announced they are unable to open the site.

They said the weather will make it impossible to manage the site safely and the majority of light installations, teepees and stages aren't able to stay up.

The organisers stress they have not made the desicion lightly, but after consulting with experts it was deemed a necessity in the interests of public safety and audience experience.

Rachel Willis, director at Stellar Projects said "This is heart breaking and the hardest decision we've had to ever make but given the weather warnings, we have no option but to heed the forecast; the safety of visitors and staff is our number on priority"

Thursday visitors who have purchased tickets will be contacted by the team to arrange refunds.

The planned event for tomorrow night (Friday, December 6) will be going ahead as the weather forecast is much calmer - Stellar projects ask Friday ticket holders to keep an eye on social media channels on Facebook for any updates.

It is hoped Nightfall will become an annual event in Teesside’s cultural calendar and will return in 2020.

For more information and to sign up for future ticket alerts visit nightfallfestival.co.uk