James Richards Circus is unable to perform at Aston, Sheffield, over Covid fearsJames Richards Circus is unable to perform at Aston, Sheffield, over Covid fears
James Richards Circus is unable to perform at Aston, Sheffield, over Covid fears

Circus in Sheffield forced to cancel performances over council's Covid fears

A circus in Sheffield has been forced to cancel performances because of a council’s fears over Covid-19.

James Richards Circus announced on Facebook that despite being given the go-ahead by Aston-cum-Aughton Parish Council to set up at Burgoyne Park, Rotherham Council has raised concerns and asked the parish council to withdraw permission for performances.

The big top was due to open tomorrow, with performances planned until October 4.

The circus has spent the past few days setting up.

Refunds are now being offered to customers.

In a statement posted on Facebook, the circus said: “We have just had the bad news that Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council have asked Aston-cum-Aughton Parish Council to cancel our event here this week.

“They feel that the sharp rise in cases in the Yorkshire area means no events should take place.

“We have had a site meeting with the parish council and they are happy with the measures we have in place but the parish are unable to overrule RMBC.

“Both the parish council and ourselves know we are not doing anything wrong and have all the relevant safety measures in place to continue to open however RMBC are the larger council.

“The parish have asked RMBC to issue a statement as to reassure the public that although the circus is safe to operate and has demonstrated this to other councils they do not want any events taking place in their area.

“We will of course honour what the parish have decided and will be unfortunately beginning refunds shortly.

“The box office will be open to begin issuing refunds for everyone who bought onsite and Ticketsource will begin issuing refunds immediately. We expect online sales to take one to three days to refund.

“We can only apologise for not being able to hold the event this year as we know a lot of people will be disappointed. Once again sorry.

“We look forward to visiting next year with our best show to date.”

Covid infection rates are rising in may parts of the country, with extra restrictions in place in the north east from tonight.

Mixing between households in any indoor setting, such as pubs and restaurants, will be against the law.

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