A FAMILY festival with performances, fairground rides and appearances from kid’s television characters, due to be held in Basingstoke, has been cancelled because its licence application was refused on the grounds of ‘public safety’.   

Kids Party in the Park was meant to be held in Popley on April 12 offering an event for the whole family including food, fairground rides, entertainment and performances from tribute acts including Spice Girls and Little Mix. 

Organisers announced the event has been cancelled but did not give an explanation as to why.

Now, the Gazette can reveal that the organisers failed to get the relevant documentation in place for an event licence from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

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A council spokesperson said: “This resulted in their application being refused on grounds of public safety and the organisers having to cancel their event.

“As a council we would expect the event organiser to refund those people who have purchased tickets and would not consider any future event bookings on our land from the organiser if this does not happen.”

A message posted on Kids Party in the Park Facebook page said: “Basingstoke. We are sorry to announce that our Easter Weekend Event (sic) has been cancelled. All those that were amazing enough to purchase tickets will receive a full refund.

“If you have any issues, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team and will resolve and (sic) problems you may be facing. Thank you for being so understanding. We look forward to seeing you all soon at our next event near you.”

The Gazette has tried to contact the organisers, however, they are yet to respond.

Some people who bought tickets to the event, costing up to £80 for a family of four, said they are still waiting for a refund.

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The event was meant to include a foam party, two stages, an outdoor cinema, activities such as circus skills and archery, and meet and greets with characters.

It is not the first time the organisers have cancelled an event.  

A Kids Party in the Park due to take place on April 5 in Hove was also cancelled with no explanation given as to why.

Are you waiting for a refund for Kids Party in the Park Basingstoke? Get in touch by emailing emily.roberts@newsquest.co.uk.