Huge two-day wartime spectacular set to go ahead in Harborough in August has been scrapped amid the Covid-19 crisis

A huge two-day wartime spectacular which was set to go ahead in Market Harborough in August has been scrapped amid the Covid-19 crisis.

Harborough at War was due to be staged at Harborough Showground on Gallow Field Road on the weekend of August 8-9.

But director Steve Crook told ther Harborough Mail today: “We have had to cancel this summer’s show.

“We are doing it with a heavy heart.

“But there’s just no way we can do it at this late stage after so much uncertainty due to the coronavirus lockdown.”

Steve added: “Our first show last year was a massive success.

“We had over 5,000 people flock to see us from all over the area.

“I’m sure it would have been even more of a hit this year.

“On the back of last year’s success we had twice the number of re-enactors set to appear this year.

“But we just haven’t got the time and the resources to stage it as it’s just weeks away.”

The local businessman said it was a “heartbreaking” decision to take.

“I’ve got two full-time staff working alongside me and at least 20 fantastic volunteers.

“That number swells to over 50 at the show itself,” said Steve, who lives in Market Harborough.

“But people’s health and safety has to come first.

“We do not want to put people’s health at risk.

“And apart from anything else we’d need a small army just to try to implement all the guidelines on social distancing, etc, across our weekend.

“It’s a real shame because the town and the whole area loved it last year.

“This year we were hoping to take all of Market Harborough back to the 1940s.

“But we are fighting a new war now ourselves.

“It’s an invisible war – and it’s a very tough war to fight.

“So despite all our best efforts – and it’s taken us almost 12 months to organise – we’ve got to call it off.

“And all being well we will be back in Market Harborough next year even bigger and even better.”

Leicestershire County Show, which was to be held at Harborough Showground on Saturday and Sunday August 22 and 23, has also been scrapped because of the pandemic.

They have posted on their website:

"It is with great regret that the Society has made the decision to cancel the 2020 show.

"With the uncertain times ahead, we feel, like many other organisations it would be irresponsible of us to continue with the show.

"We will be refunding all bookings and will be contacting everyone concerned over the next few days.

"We hope you all stay safe and well!"