It has been announced that the organisers of the Saddleworth & Oldham Whit Friday contests have made the decision to cancel the event on 5th June.

Statement

A statement has been issued by Bob Rodgers, Chairman of the Saddleworth & Oldham District Whit Friday Contests and reads:

"Following Government guidelines on Pandemic Covid-19 and taking into consideration the projected peak of the infection, it was the consensus of opinion that we have a duty of care to protect all participants and therefore should adopt a responsible and proactive approach for the safety of everyone.

The decision has been made taking into account the recommendations of Brass Bands England who were following the advice of Public Health England, it has been taken now to avoid unnecessary expense being incurred to bands by booking of coaches and possibly accommodation etc.

We would like to thank Oldham Council Officers, GM Police, the bands and the public in general for their support at this difficult time.

We look forward to putting on a great show on 28th May 2021."