Organisers of a popular County Durham firework display have been forced to cancel its 2023 event after torrential rain has hit the venue that stages the event. 

Beamish Hall normally attracts families from across the region to attend its firework extravaganza each year, but has been left with little choice but to cancel the event, which was scheduled for Bonfire Night on Sunday (November 5).

In a statement issued from the organisers, they highlighted the amount of rain that had hit the grass at the hall.

The Northern Echo: Families watch on as fireworks explode in the skyFamilies watch on as fireworks explode in the sky (Image: PA MEDIA)

The forecast for later in the week is also looking threatening, according to Beamish Hall.

Storm Ciaran is set to bring a fresh bout of wind and rain to the North East – with a yellow weather warning issued for Thursday (November 2).

The warning across the North East and Scotland will be in place until 6am on Friday.

Kate Marks, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said “significant flooding” is possible.

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“We advise people to stay away from swollen rivers and urge people not to drive through flood water as just 30cm (1ft) of flowing water is enough to move your car,” she said.

The Environment Agency had issued 24 flood warnings for England by 11am on Wednesday morning, with 116 flood alerts.

Beamish Hall said that a full refund would be issued, and hoped that people would join the venue for its 2024 event.

The statement said: "Unfortunately, due to the extreme amount of rain we had over the past weeks and the weather warnings for later in the week, we have no choice but to cancel our Bonfire Night events.

"We can assure you this decision has not been taken lightly and we are just as disappointed as you with the cancellation.

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"You will receive a full refund automatically, there is no action required from you. Our events team has started work on this already and funds will be with you within 5-7 working days.

"Apologies for the inconvenience and the somewhat short notice. We were desperately hoping the weather and condition of our grounds would improve however this is certainly not the case.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding and we look forward to welcoming you to the event in 2024."