Lewes Boxing Day Wheelbarrow Run Axed Over Safety Fears
The beloved Boxing Day Wheelbarrow Run in Lewes has been cancelled, sparking local outrage. The annual fundraiser for the Lewes Foodbank was called off following rising safety concerns.
Council Blocks Road Closure for Hunt, Approves Rival Event
Lewes District Council refused the Southdown & Eridge Hunt’s request to close High Street from Fisher Street to Nevill Road on December 26th. Instead, they granted a closure to Action Against Foxhunting’s Community Foodbank Fundraiser from 11am to 12pm the same day. This clash has thrown the Wheelbarrow Run’s plans into chaos.
Threats and Silence Push Organisers to Pull the Plug
Organisers revealed they faced online threats from hunt supporters promising disruption. They alerted authorities immediately but attempts to resolve things peacefully fell flat. Two formal letters were sent to the SDE Hunt requesting a move and assurances, but no reply came.
“Because we cannot guarantee the safety of the public, the runners, the organisers, or the Mayor, we have had no choice but to cancel the event,” said a Wheelbarrow Run spokesperson.
The cancellation is a huge blow to the local community and Foodbank, as the Wheelbarrow Run is a highlight of the festive season. Lewes now faces questions over public safety and the impact of competing events in the town centre.
