HEALTH and safety concerns have led to the cancellation of Royston’s May Fayre, a flagship event for the town’s year of celebration.

The news was revealed today (Thursday) by Royston Town Council which made the decision to call off Monday’s event after discussions with North Herts District Council.

Susan Thornton-Bjork, Royston town clerk, said: “After discussions with North Herts District Council the May Fayre Committee agreed to re-organisation of some of the events, after further consideration by the May Fayre Committee to day it is was decided to cancel the event for Health and Safety reasons.”

The torch relay which was meant to officially open the event will still take place from the heath at 9.45am and the beacon will be lit in the Priory Memorial Gardens at 11.50am.

The car show in the Town Hall carpark will still go ahead.

NHDC confirmed the town council had discussed the fayre with the town council.

Liz Green, head of policy and community services for the council, said: “North Herts District Council met with some members of Royston Town Council yesterday (May 2) to discuss concerns about the damage that could be caused by heavy vehicles entering into Priory Memorial Gardens due to the recent spell of bad weather.

“It was agreed that by changing the layout of the event and placing the fun fair in an alternative location we could protect the gardens from any harm. NHDC are keen to enable events to continue for the enjoyment of the public despite the continued wet weather.”