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Virus restrictions again force organisers to cancel town's popular classic car show

Virus restrictions again force organisers to cancel town's popular classic car show

Organisers of the popular Ilkeston Heritage and Classic Vehicle Show have cancelled this year's event because of the Government restrictions dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

It is the second successive year that Erewash Partnership Events, a sister company of enterprise agency Erewash Partnership, has had to take the difficult decision to cancel what had become Ilkeston's biggest one day event.

Since it started in 2013 many thousands of spectators have enjoyed wandering around the historic Market Place and nearby streets looking at hundreds of classic and sports cars, motorbikes and scooters, lorries, buses, tractors and steam engines and wallowing in the sights, sounds and memories of bygone years.

But organisers felt they had no choice but to cancel the show planned for this August because of possible restrictions and the complications of delivering a major event safely in a public space.

Partnership chief executive Ian Viles said:

“The well-being of volunteers, exhibitors and visitors is of  paramount importance.

“Not only did we have to consider the impact of any probable social distancing restrictions but also whether it was practical to proceed in terms of time and resources available to organise such a large-scale event when the Partnership's focus is on providing vital advice and support to local businesses in these difficult times.

“The event is largely funded by generous local businesses helping provide a great family day and in light of the financial pressures that the virus has caused we felt it unfair to ask firms for donations.

The organisers were also concerned about public safety, particularly with people coming from different areas and how to implement social distancing at the free event.

“Having considered all these factors, we were left, sadly, with no other option but to cancel the event, “ added Ian.

“We know this will be a big disappointment for exhibitors, fans, businesses that open specially on the day and charities that would benefit and we thank sponsors, exhibitors and others for their patience while we deliberated.

“We thought it better to make an early decision and inform all those involved and we hope to be able to put on a great show next year and welcome back familiar faces.”


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