Night of first light festival in Norwich cancelled ahead of Storm Dennis’ arrival

Pictures from the first night of Love Light Norwich. Photo: Richard Marks (Image: Archant)

The first Love Light Norwich, organised by the Norwich Business Improvement District, kicked off on Thursday night, with light displays and events held around the city.

But on its website, the organisers said "due to the extreme weather conditions forecast for Saturday", when wind speeds between 50mph and 70mph are expected, they had decided to cancel the festival on Saturday, February 15.

The only exception is the performances of FloodLight by The Neutrinos, which will go ahead indoors in The Halls.

Love Light Norwich installation at the Cathedral. Picture: Norwich Cathedral/Bill Smith (Image: Norwich Cathedral © 2020)

Caroline Bidewell, head of operations of Love Light Norwich, said, "We cannot guarantee the safety of visitors, crew or volunteers, so have made the hard decision to cancel much of Saturday's programming.

READ MORE: All you need to know ahead of new festival Love Light Norwich

"We have to put everyone's safety first and we're therefore encouraging everyone to come and enjoy Love Light Norwich tonight.

Love Light Norwich installation at the Cathedral. Picture: Norwich Cathedral/Bill Smith (Image: Norwich Cathedral © 2020)

Festivities tonight will go ahead as planned, including the Love Light Parade which takes place at 6pm and runs from Norwich Cathedral to The Forum.

It will feature French street performance company Picto-Facto, who will be bringing their cheeky and captivating figures the Lampadophores, alongside local arts organisation Tin House and LumiDogs, with pampered pooches in light-up costumes.

Storm Dennis is expected to bring strong winds and rain to the county across the weekend, with a Met Office weather warning in place on Saturday and Sunday.

It comes a week after Storm Ciara wreaked havoc across the county.

You can view the full programme at lovelightnorwich.co.uk