Salisbury fireworks cancelled after ‘licensing complication’

The Rotary clubs of Wilton and Salisbury were due to host the event on November 3, with tickets on sale and free bus transport arranged.

But they have pulled the plug on the night, saying the licensing problem would have restricted the event to just 500 people.

Wiltshire Council, which is responsible for licensing and permits, says it will work with the Rotary clubs on future events and can offer licensing advice.

Andy Rhind-Tutt, president of the Wilton Rotary club, said: “It is such a shame as we had put an awful lot of effort into bringing back Salisbury's wonderful firework display and in a place where animals and pets would have been at a safe distance from the event.

“We thought everything was in place this year but sadly an unexpected licensing complication arose at the end of last week, which meant our large event with music and food and drink would have been restricted to 500 people and this made it unviable at such a late stage.

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“I unreservedly apologise to anyone who has already purchased a ticket and we will of course refund in full.

“I wish to thank all our partners who stepped up to help this year, including Salisbury Reds, Salisbury Radio, Salisbury Journal, The Hair Extension Cave, Oliver Chandler and Amesbury Filling Station and many others.

“Whilst this is a real disappointment, we will be back soon with our efforts to support the community in many other ways as we head towards the Christmas period and hopefully will be back next year!”

Councillor Dominic Muns, Wiltshire Council's cabinet member for public protection, said: “The premises hosting the event has had discussions with our licensing team regarding the nature of the event and possible licensing implications.

“We are meeting with the event organisers next week to discuss future events in general and are also happy to offer specific licensing advice regarding this year's firework display and any applications that may be required.”

This is the third year in a row that a big fireworks night in or near Salisbury has been cancelled.

In 2022, the fireworks night was called off because of “safety issues” after 130mm (five inches) of rain fell in the days before it was due to be held.

That left some areas of the Salisbury Racecourse venue saturated and waterlogged.

Last year, the club “could not secure transport and ticketing facilities in time” after a new location was found.