Buxton Spring Fair cancelled due to coronavirus

The event was due to take place on Friday May 8 but organisers said that with the current advice from the Government to avoid large gatherings, they had no choice but to cancel it.

Buxton International Festival has been cancelled for 2020 and international quarrying exhibition Hillhead has been postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19.

Posting on Facebook, Buxton Spring Fair Chief Organiser Jane Fletcher, said the decision had been taken with ‘great sadness’ and added: “Government advice at present is to stay away from large gatherings so it doesn’t seem right to push forward with our planning and promotion when this is the case.

“The Buxton Spring Fair is a not for profit organisation and we cannot take the risk of incurring further costs.

“The May Fair aims to bring all members of our community together. It thrives on attracting as many people as possible, but that's clearly not appropriate at a time when we are being encouraged to avoid large gatherings.

“The Buxton Spring Fair attracts thousands of visitors to our town and it actively supports community groups and local businesses. Seeing local residents and visitors alike turn out to enjoy the day is what makes it worthwhile for all of us involved. But at this moment we need to be considerate to everyone, especially the vulnerable members of our community.”

A summer fair planned to take place later in the year would continue, organisers confirmed.

“The Buxton Summer Fair on Monday 31st August is at the present time still going ahead unless Government advice states otherwise,” the Facebook post continued.

“All stall holders and community groups that have already booked for the Spring Fair will automatically have first refusal for the Summer Fair!

“Until then please stay safe, take care of your neighbours, shop locally and be kind.“I will be in touch with all stall holders and community organisations personally that have already booked over the coming week.”