Coronavirus: Portsmouth's Gunwharf Quays 'really sorry' as fireworks display cancelled in 2020 over safety concerns

The shopping centre have said that they ‘are not able to deliver’ the Bonfire Night event due to concerns for the ‘safety’ of guests as a result of the on-going coronavirus pandemic.

It is the second year in a row that Gunwharf Quays has not held its traditional fireworks display.

The 2019 display did not take place as the outlet centre used its supply as part of the D-Day 75 anniversary events in Portsmouth in the June of that year.

Yvonne Clay, assistant general manager at Gunwharf Quays, said: ‘We're really sorry that we are not able to deliver a fireworks display for our guests at Gunwharf Quays.

‘We are sure the people of Portsmouth share the same disappointment as we do, however the safety of our guests always comes first.’

SEE ALSO: 5 schools with confirmed Covid-19 cases since pupils returned

The government recently announced fresh coronavirus restrictions including the so-called rule of six, which limits the amount of people who can meet in a group indoors and outdoors.

The official advice reads: ‘When meeting friends and family you do not live with (or have formed a support bubble with) you must not meet in a group of more than 6, indoors or outdoors.

‘This is against the law and the police will have the powers to enforce these legal limits, including to issue fines (fixed penalty notices) of £200, doubling for further breaches up to a maximum of £6,400.’

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