AN annual fun fair at a busy recreation ground should be cancelled to stop the spread of coronavirus, it has been claimed.

Colchester councillor Lee Scordis (Lab, Old Heath and Hythe) has raised concerns about the return of the Family Fun Fair to Old Heath Recreation Ground with worries over a second wave of the virus.

He is calling for Colchester Council’s Colchester Events Company to call a halt to the fun fair which runs from Wednesday to Sunday next week.

Mr Scordis said: “I was shocked to see this fun fair was still going ahead.

"I can understand families will be looking forward to this for their children but we have to ask ourselves if this is worth the risk.

“Allowing an event which encourages a large gathering in a small space is reckless.

“We have already seen the infection rate rise as we lift the lockdown and public health experts have warned of a significant rise when schools return. 

“I hope the council’s events team makes the right call and cancels this event.”

Event organisers Manning and Thurston’s is advertising a number of new safety measures during the event including hand sanitiser stations, new queuing systems for all rides and extra cleaning.

The number of visitors will also be limited.

James Manning, of Manning and Thurston's, said: "The Covid plan we are following is very strict. I am 100 per cent confident the fair will be safe.

"We have our own families living on site so we would not do anything to put people in danger.

"This is the biggest and best fair we have ever brought to Colchester too."

A spokesperson for Colchester Events Company said it was working with the organisers on safety measures.

He said: “We have been in discussions with the fun fair organisers to ensure the event complies with Government guidance and all necessary safety measures are put in place to ensure social distancing and protect public health.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and respond appropriately to any reports Covid regulations are not being adhered to.”

The fair takes place from next Wednesday to next Sunday between 2pm and 9pm every day except Sunday when it closes at 8pm.