Events cancelled at council and Awen

Bridgend County Borough Council and Awen Cultural Trust have agreed to reschedule or cancel all events that were due to take place between now and September 2020 at venues such as the Grand Pavilion in Porthcawl.

The decision, which follows the ongoing impact of the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic, has been taken to protect residents and visitors alike. It will affect matches organised by the Welsh Wrestling Tour 2020, concerts by Toploader and Goldie Lookin’ Chain, and events held as part of the annual Elvis Festival.

It also takes into account updated advice and guidance from Welsh Government and Public Health Wales on the likely stages the country will move through once the current lockdown is over, and what the expectations are likely to be for cultural venues such as theatres and cinemas.

The pandemic is very much ongoing and we do not yet know when it will be safe for lockdown procedures to be lifted. As we are very aware that many businesses invest in merchandise, goods and supplies to sell as part of local events, we feel that it is important to confirm a decision now on council and Awen venues in order to minimise the impact on traders, and enable them to plan ahead effectively.

Popular events of all sizes throughout the UK, including ones which were scheduled for September, have already been cancelled because of the pandemic, with many seeking to make the best of the situation by moving online for a digital celebration instead.

The only thing that we know for certain is that the pandemic will eventually pass, and I hope that when that happens, we can continue to support local events once life has returned to normal.

Chief Executive Mark

Richard Hughes, Chief Executive of Awen Cultural Trust, added: “We would like to thank our loyal customers and the local community for their continued support and understanding during these challenging times as we deal with the ongoing impact of COVID-19 on venues such as the Grand Pavilion.

“We believe that by acting promptly and proactively, we can give our staff, patrons, performers and promoters the certainty that we will only operate once it is safe to do so, and in such a way that gives us the time to prepare a working and social environment that complies with the very latest advice from Public Health Wales.

“As a venue very much in tune with the community, we would also wish to support the safety of our local residents in both Porthcawl and the wider county borough.

“We are very much looking forward to a time when we can re-open our doors and welcome you back to the Grand Pavilion once again.

“Until then, please continue to follow our social media channels for the very latest news and ways in which you can support us through this challenging time.”