The chairman of St. Florence Community Council has commented on the cancellation of a popular bonfire event for the village.

Last week, the Observer reported on how villagers in St. Florence had expressed dismay that the annual bonfire night and fireworks display, which is held at the village’s playing fields and organised by the St. Florence Village Association, would not be running this November due to a 6,000 per cent increase in hiring fees by the community council.

Bruce Buckmaster, chairman of the community council, has since explained that the hiring increase reflects the cost of insuring the event.

“Naturally, it is disappointing that the Village Association felt unable to continue with the bonfire night this year due to the cost, but I can confirm that with a reported 3,500 in attendance last year, the increase reflects the cost of insuring the event, nothing more, nothing less,” he commented.

“Notwithstanding this, thanks to St. Florence School, St. Florence Football Team and the Village Hall Committee, a bonfire and firework event will be held as always on November 5 at the St. Florence Sports Field and we hope that your readers will be able to join us to make the evening a success.

“Advance tickets will be on sale in the village from October 5 at £1 for children under 12 years old and at £2.50 for those 12 years and over,” he added.

For further information, visit the Facebook page, ‘St Florence Bonfire Night is On’.