Several fireworks displays and a torch procession across the south of England have been cancelled due to an elevated fire risk caused by prolonged dry weather. The Abingdon International Fireworks Festival in Oxfordshire, originally set for 29 August, has been rescheduled to 10 April 2027.
Bridport Carnival's torchlight procession, which was expected to involve around 1,000 people carrying flaming torches, will not proceed this year. Hampshire Air Festival has also cancelled its fireworks display planned for 12 September, and Shanklin Regatta on the Isle of Wight has cancelled its fireworks for Saturday.
Organisers of the air show at Thruxton, near Andover, stated they do not consider it responsible to hold a large-scale ground firework display in the current environmental conditions. The budget for their fireworks is being redirected to an expanded drone light show and an enhanced night-show finale.
Weymouth Town Council, however, decided to proceed with its fireworks on Monday after discussions with its contractor and Dorset's fire service. They noted the fireworks are launched from the sea by an experienced company and, as a precaution, the launching barge will be moved further from land. Bournemouth's display on Saturday was cancelled, with BCP Council citing the safety of residents, visitors, and open spaces as paramount.
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service urged people on Sunday to stop calling 999 to report neighbours' barbecues and bonfires, stating they had received a high volume of such calls. They advised using emergency lines only for genuine emergencies.