Classic car event and bathtub race among New Year's Day plans cancelled in South due to weather

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The classic car and vintage vehicle event in Poole has been cancelled by BCP Council ahead of expected poor weather. Credit: ITV Meridian

A homemade boat race set to be held in Poole on New Year’s Day has been cancelled because of the expected poor weather.

Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council said in a statement: "Unfortunately the Bathtub Race is now cancelled due to the severity of the swell of the water forecast for New Year’s Day and the incapability of the Rescue Ribs to launch."

The classic car and vintage vehicle event, that was due to go ahead on Poole Quay from 10am, has also now been cancelled.

Sandown Carnival on the Isle of Wight has also said that it will postpone its fireworks display planned for New Year’s Day because of the "predicted wind speeds" and poor conditions for creating the firework stations on the pier.

The organisers said in a statement: "Combined with high tide and likely rough sea conditions, it would not be safe for them to attempt the build. Of course, safety comes first and we regret having to take this decision."

The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis has also cancelled its Lyme Lunge sea dip on Wednesday because of forecast winds of 50-60mph and it said in a statement: "I think you will all agree that we must put the safety of Lungers first."

The Illuminated Light Trail at Christmas and Adventure Play at Blenheim Palace have also been closed due to high winds.

Organisers have apologised for any inconvenience caused to ticket holders, who will be contacted by their ticketing provider.

Neverland in the Palace, Neverland Afternoon tea and The Great Skate will remain open.

It comes as the Met Office has put in place a yellow weather warning for wind across the South of England until 3pm on New Year's Day.

According to the weather service, the strongest winds are expected across coastal regions in the west and south of the warning area, where gusts of 65-75 mph are possible.

Inland, highest gusts will typically be between 45 and 55 mph, but possibly 60 mph in places. A band of heavy rain is also expected.

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