Protests over future of events at Melford Hall continue despite temporary reprieve for Big Night Out fireworks event

A popular fireworks night has been saved from cancellation this year, following a u-turn by its host venue – but residents are continuing to protest over the lack of long-term assurances for future events.

The National Trust confirmed it had reached an agreement with organisers of Long Melford’s Big Night Out to enable the long-running annual charity fundraiser to take place at Melford Hall on November 11.

It reverses the trust’s decision last month to withdraw permission for the event to be held there, due to concerns about the impact on archaeologically-sensitive areas.

Despite the announcement, concerned villagers pressed ahead with a planned protest outside the entrance to the Grade II-listed hall on Thursday, to express discontent at the uncertainty which had been placed on events beyond 2022.

Residents and parish councillors said the latest arrangement did not provide any clarity for Big Night Out after this year, nor other yearly events hosted on the site.

Andrew Hagger, president of Project Seven, which organises Big Night Out, was among those in attendance at Thursday’s protest.

He told Suffolk News: “It’s only for this year, unfortunately. They seem to be keeping their cards close to their chest.

“I would like to keep the pressure up on the National Trust to see if we can continue to use the land, because it’s an ideal venue for the event. We’re still not sure about any other venue.

“I’d like to think that they will see sense at the end of the day, and see the benefits that the village and the surrounding areas get from Big Night Out.

“They must have benefited from it, because a lot of people who come along have never been to Melford Hall before.”

In response, the National Trust insists it wants to support future events and hopes to work with the community to find a solution.

Leigh Freeman, general manager at Melford Hall, said: “The National Trust, the Hyde Parker family and Project Seven have come to an agreement that will allow the 2022 Big Night Out to take place in its current location, with adjustments in place to ensure that the ground conditions are protected.

“It was always our hope that a solution could be found that benefited the community and ensured the more sensitive area of the park was protected.

“We are really keen to support future events on the parkland and will work with the community to facilitate these.”

Amy Hyde Parker added: “This may be the last time that Big Night Out takes place at Melford Hall, but we, the Hyde Parkers, hope to work with Project Seven in the future on other events, which will allow their good work to continue.

“We are continuing to work on other events for 2023 and the organising teams for these events are being kept updated.

“We look forward to welcoming you all to Melford Hall Park on November 11.”