A “hugely popular” fireworks show has been cancelled after a sponsor pulled out.

Kings Langley Parish Council confirmed this morning (October 8) that it decided to scrap the display that usually follows the Christmas lights switch-on in the village at a full council meeting on October 1.

The main festive event will still go ahead in High Street on Saturday, November 23.

“This decision was not taken lightly,” said parish councillor Alan Johnson. “We know that it will be very disappointing for some residents and their families, but we are still looking forward to welcoming everyone as we mark the start of the Christmas period.”

In an online message to residents, it blamed the cancellation on “increasing costs to the council as a result of the withdrawal of a major sponsor for this event.” It added that councillors had to acknowledge that, despite financial support from local traders, the rising cost of putting the display on would not be “a reasonable use of residents’ money”.

A funfair, stalls, Santa and his elves, and the actual switching-on of the lights will still be part of the event – which draws crowds from around the area each year – for attendees to enjoy.

Councillor Johnson added: “We will be reviewing this year’s event early in the new year, including the associated costs, to see how we wish to take forward this hugely popular event in 2025.”

High Street will be closed for the event from 12pm, with stalls and other activities running from 3pm to 6pm. The road will be reopened once everything is cleared away and it is safe for traffic to start up again.

Residents’ opinions on the cancellation have been split, with some disappointed that they would not be able to enjoy the popular display this year, while others said they were pleased it would not be going ahead.

Several said they are generally against fireworks being set off anywhere, because they can scare pets and wildlife.