Film fans have branded a last-minute decision by organisers to cancel an open air cinema screening as "disgraceful".

Huge crowds were set to descend on the sports park at King's Hill on Friday night for a viewing of popular musical film The Greatest Showman, starring Hugh Jackman.

The event was due to kick off at 6pm, however a number of visitors were not informed of the cancellation - enforced due to high winds in the area - until after they arrived at the venue.

One customer, Gemma Harker, said on social media: "I understand the health and safety but I got an email at 6.07pm when we were practically here.

"A big group of us have all now travelled for no reason when we could’ve been alerted before we left. Disgraceful."

Several others also vented frustration at making an hour-long round trip for nothing, having not been warned of the cancellation before leaving their homes.

Alfresco Events, which organised the screening, apologised for the cancellation on Facebook, and insisted refunds for the event - which cost £15 for adults and £10 for children - are currently being processed.

A spokesperson admitted a late decision was made as they were determined to keep it open if possible, but were advised to cancel the event by health and safety bosses as a result of gusts of wind at the sports park.

The company said in a statement: "We have been advised it is not safe to have the screen up in the current conditions.

"Once again we apologise for the cancellation, we have to take advice from the screen company and we cannot put the audience at risk.

"Thank you for your patience and we thank you all for your continued support."