The Boardmasters festival has been cancelled just hours before gates were due to open. Around 55,000 people were expected in Newquay to see headline acts Wu-Tang Clan, Florence + The Machine and Foals. Razorlight, Dizzee Rascal and Jorja Smith were also set to appear.
Many people are already on their way and some are already there and now have to find accommodation or get the train back.
Organisers said the forecast was “too severe” for the event to go ahead. Organisers had cancelled after consultation with police. In a statement they said: “The safety of you, the fans and attendees, as well as performers and crew comes first, and the potential risk is too severe for the event to go ahead at this time.”
They added: “We sincerely regret the disappointment to fans, and apologise for any disruption caused to local businesses, performers and crew who were looking forward to Boardmasters as much as we were.”
Information about the ticket refunds will be available “as soon as possible”.
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for heavy rain and thunderstorms for much of England and Wales on Friday and Saturday. Strong winds were also expected for Cornwall. All campsites in Newquay are full so people are being directed to stay on the outskirts of the town.
The Boardmaster Festival is a mixture of music and surfing/skateboarding competitions.
