A POPULAR Hallowe'en event in Gwent has been cancelled, after recent poor weather caused a “safety hazard” at the venue.
The Hallowe'en Fun event at Dewstow Gardens and Grottoes was set to offer families a “spooktastic” time, as they explored tunnels and grottoes, exploring a pumpkin and black cat trail.
And while the event proved to be a smash hit when it opened to customers on October 16, organisers had to pull the plug on Tuesday, October 26, days before it was originally set to end.
Located on the outskirts of Caldicot in Monmouthshire, the event covered the existing facilities at Dewstow Gardens, before the recent poor weather put the final nail in the coffin.
According to organisers, the recent heavy rain made the car park “sodden”, and the additional traffic and footfall was creating a safety hazard.
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What’s more, it was anticipated that the attraction would become even busier as Hallowe'en drew closer.
To prevent the risk of serious injury, the decision was made to close the gardens for the season early.
Anyone hoping to attend is being advised not to, at this time.
Fortunately, tickets were only available to purchase on arrival – meaning that no one has been left out of pocket by the sudden closure.
The gardens are set to reopen for their new season in Spring 2022, on April 30.
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Statement from organisers in full
Confirming that the gardens are now closed for the season, organisers took to social media, posting: “It is with great regret that we have to cancel our Halloween event at Dewstow Gardens. We have been running now for 10 days and the response has been phenomenal.
“Unfortunately, our limited facilities have already been overwhelmed with five days still to go until October 31.
“The amount of traffic and the amount of visitors and children walking to and from cars on a sodden car park has become a safety hazard and we cannot risk any possible accidents or injuries. Because of this and with numbers expected to increase as we head toward Hallowe'en, we have taken the decision to cancel the Hallowe'en event and close the gardens with immediate effect.
“We are really sorry for anyone who has planned to visit Hallowe'en in the Gardens over the next few days, but safety has to be paramount. Please do not arrive at the gardens as they are now closed for the season.
“We would like to thank everyone who has visited for Halloween and throughout the season. We hope to see many of you next season which begins on Saturday 30th April 2022.”
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