Southwark Council has announced its fireworks display will not go ahead this year because of the “ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19”. 

The annual Bonfire Night celebrations attract tens of thousands of people every year.

This would have been the 16th year Southwark has hosted the popular event, which is free to all those who live in the borough. 

But in the wake of Covid-19 and in line with Government advice, this year’s fireworks display “has sadly been cancelled”, a council spokesperson said, adding that the council is working to support other small-scale events to get up and running soon. 

Cllr Rebecca Lury, cabinet member for culture, leisure, equalities and communities, said the health and safety of residents “comes first”.  

 “It is with regret that we must cancel our 2020 fireworks show.  

“The health and safety of our residents comes first and this cannot be guaranteed while working to current government guidelines and laws.  

“We very much hope to be re-starting other small-scale local events shortly,” she said.  

The event, held in Southwark Park every November, becomes the latest of many events which have been cancelled or postponed in the wake of the pandemic. 

It was due to take place on November 5.