‘Much-loved’ Eid event cancelled in Luton over safety concerns

​​The council made the decision to cancel the Inspire Eid event in Stockwood Park after a recommendation from its safety advisory group.

​The safety group is made up of representatives from Bedfordshire Police, East of England Ambulance Service, public protection, parks and highways.

The event, organised by radio station Inspire FM, had drawn crowds of up to 30,000 people – and said it was committed to making sure it is inclusive, accessible and affordable for the community, with cheaper ride tickets and partnerships with the town’s charities.

But ​Luton Council said in recent years there had been “serious incidents and significant traffic congestion associated with the event”.

The council said: “...public safety must always be our absolute priority. Inspire Eid is a major event, which has been growing in popularity and attendance, attracting up to 30,000 attendees in some years, and with that scale comes significant responsibility.

"We reviewed our policy last year and events will only be authorised where the required documentation, infrastructure and safeguards are fully in place and approved through SAG, which includes emergency service partners.

“This is hugely regrettable as Inspire Eid is a much-loved and valued event for many families across Luton, and we understand that this news will be deeply disappointing.”

​In a statement, Inspire FM said: “The festival has become a much-loved community event enjoyed by thousands.

“We extend our sincere thanks to our volunteers, sponsors, ride operators and community partners for their ongoing support. Our dedication to serving our community remains unchanged.

​“As the celebration has grown, so have the safety, traffic and operational requirements needed to run an event of this size.

​“We know this news will disappoint many families, but public safety must always come first.”

​The council said it would work with Inspire FM for future events.

The spokesperson added: “We remain committed to working constructively with Inspire FM to explore how the event might take place safely and sustainably in the future.”

While Inspire FM said: “Inspire FM remains fully committed to delivering safe, inclusive and affordable celebrations for Luton. We are continuing to work with partners to develop a format that meets all required standards, with the aim of bringing Inspire Eid back as soon as possible.”