WINWICK Parish Council has promised a full investigation following a storm of protest from visitors to a Bonfire Night Extravaganza at Winwick Leisure Centre, with many people making demands for a full refund.
Various complaints included poor organisation, dangerous conditions for children, long queues and many advertised activities not being available, including no bonfire, no hog roast and a licensed bar that was so packed no one could get near it.
Other people complained they missed the fireworks because they couldn’t get in due to long queues. There were also reports of highway dangers because of people having to walk with prams and children in the road.
One visitor posted on social media: “Was unhappy at the organisation of this event. A lot that was advertised was not there. The firework display was good but short and no music. There was very few stalls and as we went to get food they were shutting straight after the display. This was very disappointing as we were hoping to eat here.
“Furthermore, there didn’t seem to be much regard for health and safety and our family was especially annoyed at the fact we paid nearly £40 to attend to find people walking in for free and a lack of security. I don’t think we would attend another event at this establishment.”
Another said: “What an absolute disgrace- we paid £38 in advance for our tickets – what a con – yet basically it was free on the day of the event – it was very poorly lit – thank god for our torches on our phones to keep the children safe! Lots of promised attractions missing!
Far too busy to be safe, event organisers clearly were far too greedy for profit, rather than safety and quality of event! I want my money back and the fact they charged for the kids to go on the bouncy castle took the absolute mick – 😡 safe to say we won’t be returning next year such a shame for the kids!
Another post read: “The feedback on here says it all, same story for us unfortunately, we bought tickets a week ago (£31) for a ‘bonfire night extravaganza’ more like ‘bonfire night rip off!’ And even though we had tickets we queued for nearly an hour to get in to find the venue was poorly organised and dangerous, no Marshalls, no lighting, completely over crowded. The actual fireworks would have been better if I’d gone Asda an brought my own, no safety precautions, no music as promised and if that was a fifteen minute display then I must have queued for 3 days!!!
No excuse for this, poor planning and poorly carried out. I shall be expecting a full refund and apology. Who ever organised this needs to issue refunds or be reported to trading standards.”
Another said: “Shocking!!!! Came to the firework display yesterday with my 2 year old and husband!! My little boy was very excited to see paw patrol however, NO SIGNS of them!!!! Fireworks lasted for 5 minutes tops. No lights near bouncy castles which is a massive hazard couldn’t even see your children!! No food available, really unhelpful staff, no food available as stated, event full above capacity which is a massive health and safety risk!!! I think most of us have been falsely sold therefore, I would like a refund and will be enquiring about this! I never complain about anything but have been very disappointed!!!”
A statement issued by the parish council said: “Winwick Parish Council are aware that many customers were unhappy with the fireworks display yesterday evening. Sincere apologies for the late response.
“We take our obligations very seriously and will be conducting a full investigation of yesterday’s events. Please bear with us whilst we sort this out.
“We would be grateful if you would please direct your complaints and requests for refunds to our Parish clerk, [email protected], and we will deal with this as soon as we possibly can.”
