Winter Wonderland at Kent Showground, organised by Phoenix Fireworks, is cancelled

Winter Wonderland at the Kent Showground has been cancelled, with rising Covid-19 cases across Europe given as a contributing factor.

The Detling event space was was to host the festive extravaganza on the weekend of December 11 and 12, with Christmas music, a fun fair, stands, food and a musical fireworks display.

However organiser Phoenix Fireworks has announced the event will not go ahead, explaining in a statement: "With Covid restrictions being eased, we have been extremely optimistic about the upcoming event, but against a backdrop where Covid cases are taking a sharp rise across Europe, with many European countries seeing restrictions re-instated, and of course the London Mayors' decision to cancel the New Years' Eve fireworks display, we have, regrettably made the decision to cancel this year's Winter Wonderland event.

"Our team are deeply saddened by this, as we appreciate you will be too. We have worked hard during what has been the most problematic time for all involved in the events industry and had been looking forward to conclude 2021 with a festive, happy event."

Last year, dozens of families were turned away from the Phoenix Fireworks event, after being stuck in four-hour long queues to get in.

Some families were unable to get into the wonderland before it closed and organisers issued an apology and vowed to make significant changes for future events.

When Kent was plunged into more severe restrictions, the three remaining dates were scrapped.

People due to attend those shows were sent tickets to this year's event but those who chose not to attend after reports of the traffic chaos were told they wouldn't get their money back.

This year, Phoenix Fireworks is offering ticket-holders a place at their Summer Family Festival event instead.

Alternatively, people can receive a refund, if they request one within 14 days of receiving the email about the cancellation.

If no refund is requested, they will have their ticket transferred to the upcoming summer event.