ILMINSTER’S big Party on the Park event was cancelled on Sunday after torrential rain and heavy winds were forecast for the town.

Andrew Lawson, one of the event organisers, took to Facebook to announce the sad news.

He said: “Every year we beg and borrow, to pay for the running of Party on the Park. We organise the event because we love the day, and we know how much you all love it too.

"We had such an amazing day last year where we had relentless sunshine, and really hoped for the same again.

"We’ve been watching Sunday’s weather forecast eagerly since the start of this week, where originally we were expecting an overcast day the forecast has sadly become much worse. Currently we are forecast persistent rain and strong wind for most of the day.

"We have to consider the safety of everyone, running electrics, setting up stalls and gazebos, getting an arctic lorry onto the rec... none of these things will be safe in pouring rain and strong winds.

"We have considered alternative plans for the day, could we change the date? Or move it into a school hall? But we think at short notice there are too many details to consider and problems we don’t have the answers too.

"It’s a difficult decision for us to make, we’re all completely gutted, and will endeavour to get this message out to everyone we can (if you can help spread the word it would be appreciated).

"So, it is with the deepest regret I have to say, this year’s Party on the Park is cancelled."

The organisers hope to return in 2019.