Heveningham Hall fireworks display organisers apologise as ticket holders were refused entry following 'overwhelming' response

Organisers of a Suffolk fireworks display have apologised after an 'overwhelming' response left pre-paid ticket holders unable to enter.

The display, which took place on Saturday night at Heveningham Hall in Halesworth, included a performance by indie band Razorlight as well as funfair rides, food stalls and a bar.

However, many people who had pre-paid, with some tickets costing up to £40, were turned away at the gate as the event became too overcrowded.

The organisers have since apologised and are offering refunds to those who bought a ticket but were refused entry.

In a statement posted to social media on Sunday, organisers said: "We would like to apologise to those who were unable to enter the site ahead of the fireworks at our annual charitable event.

"Despite the tireless efforts of our stewards and volunteers from the local community, we were overwhelmed and totally underestimated the response due to a number of factors including not having last year’s event, the headline act attracting many more people and favourable weather.

"We will be undertaking a full review to improve our access arrangements. We will, of course, be issuing refunds to those who had purchased tickets in advance but were unable to enter the site ahead of the fireworks."

Hundreds took to social media to share their experiences at the event, with many ticket holders expressing disappointment at the fact that those buying a ticket on the door were allowed entry before them.

Joanna Craven, who called the event a 'absolute shambles', said: "We had 2 very upset children sat in a car for over 2 hours, worst thing was they were watching the fun everyone was having inside whilst sat in a stationary car.

"Not only that - no one told us that the gates had closed because you were at capacity, it totally stinks."

Madeleine Anna wrote: "The problems could have been foreseen, had happened before, and were unforgivable."

Guy Brown added: "Sat in a queue for three hours, didn't see any of the fireworks and got a puncture from being forced into the verge by the excess traffic."

However, others who were admitted into the grounds praised the event and the fireworks display.

Carl Davey said: "You did a fantastic job, picture perfect venue, and I don’t think you could of had a better fireworks display if you’d have tried.

"The roads coming in were completely overwhelmed, you couldn’t do anything different with the volume of people driving in."

Vehicle tickets were priced at £35 in advance or £40 on the gate. Pedestrian tickets cost £15 per adult and £5 per child.

To request a refund, email organisers at fireworks@heveninghamhall.co.uk.

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