Organisers of one of Kent’s most popular fireworks festivals have called an end to the annual event after its venue was sold for housing.

The Upchurch Family Fireworks has been going for more than 30 years and has most recently been held at Westmoor Farm, along the A2.

It is understood the Gillingham field has been sold and is to be developed for housing.

Organisers, 1st Upchurch Scout Group, said in a statement: “We regret to inform you that due to circumstances beyond our control, we are no longer able to continue with this event.

“It is with great sadness that we have had to announce this but the venue, we have been told, is soon to be no longer available and due to a lack of another suitable site nearby, we have taken the decision that we must call an end to this event.

“We very gratefully give enormous thanks to all those in the past who have contributed in any way to make this the popular event it became."

The event has been held at Westmoor Farm since it moved from its original home of a The Paddock in the middle of the village in 2005. It had to relocate after it became so popular that it outgrew its first home.

It was originally set up by the One O’Clock Club more than 30 years ago but was taken over by the Scouts when insurance costs became too expensive in 1996.

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