Scarborough's Goldwings charity event which raises thousands of pounds for Yorkshire Air Ambulance cancelled

The event usually takes place in September and raises thousands of pounds for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

A daytime static display, evening light parade and fireworks usually attracts 10,000 spectators from across the borough and beyond.

Given the current government coronavirus restrictions preventing large gatherings, the difficult decision has been made to cancel the 2020 event.

The Goldwings for Life Club members volunteer their time and put a huge effort into the event.

It has been very popular for many years.

Last year, a record £11,200 was raised to support the work of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance (YAA).

YAA provides a lifesaving rapid response service to five million people across the whole of Yorkshire and costs more than £3m a year to run.

The council, working with its partner organisations and the club have agreed that it would be irresponsible to go ahead as usual this year given the ongoing pandemic.

It’s hoped the 2021 event will be the biggest and best in its history.

Stuart Clark, head of the council’s operations and events teams, said: “The Goldwings for Life event is fantastically popular and we look forward to welcoming it to Scarborough each year.

“Sadly, 2020 isn’t a normal year, and, because of the current restrictions on large gatherings, we took the difficult decision to cancel the event.

“We know this will disappoint the amazing Goldwings for Life members who put in so much effort, and the many spectators who were looking forward it.

“We simply cannot do anything that goes against government rules, nor risks the spread of the coronavirus.

“I am confident 2021’s event will be the most spectacular yet.”

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