Ipswich 5k Santa Run postponed due to fears over safety of inflatables in high winds

The Inflatable 5k Santa Run in Ipswich has been postponed Picture: ARCHANT (Image: Archant)

All entries the event, which was due to take place at Trinity Park tomorrow, Saturday, December 1, will be transferred to the Ipswich Inflatable 5k on Saturday, September 7 next year.

The event’s cancellation has caused anger among those set to take part with many frustrated their entry fee will not be refunded.

Stephen Waller commented on Facebook: “And “No refunds” absolute shocker.

“Only option to do another race in September 19, which I cannot attend.”

The event’s cancellation comes just months after the death of three-year-old Ava-May Littleboy from Somersham, near Ipswich, who died in July after being thrown from an inflatable trampoline at Gorleston Beach in Norfolk.

The toddler’s death has sparked debate about the safety of such inflatables, especially in high winds.

A spokesman for organisers UK Running Events Ltd said the runners’ safety was its “primary concern”.

: “Unfortunately, due to this weekend’s weather forecast, we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the event.

“High wind gusts forecast for Saturday mean that we cannot operate the inflatable obstacles safely for participants, spectators, and event staff.

“We have concluded that it would be unsafe for us to put on an event of this scale and unpleasant for you to participate in it.

“We appreciate it’s disappointing news but as always your safety is our primary concern.”

He said that refunds are not available although runners can transfer their entry to any other Inflatable 5k event on its roster.

A full list of events can be seen at www.ukrunningevents.co.uk

Email bookings@ukrunningevents.co.uk quoting your original booking number for further assistance.