Praise for festival over social distancing measures

An outdoor free festival with social distancing in place has been praised by a Mayor.

Hetton’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor visited the Rainton Meadows Arena to view the facilities of the Rainton Fest, which is running until the end of August.

It features live music and family entertainment alongside a traditional fun fair offering rides for all ages.

Hetton Mayor, Cllr Kath Pearson, said she was delighted to have been invited to view the new local facility organised by Arena owner Jay Johal in association with local showman Michael Houghton.

Cllr Pearson said: “I was very impressed by the social distancing and safety measures the organisers have implemented.

"The huge marquee which is open on three sides has plenty of tables and chairs which are well spaced out.

"The funfair has very wide alleys and a one-way system with queuing areas for rides marked for social distancing.”

Jay said: “We have gone the extra mile to implement all the COVID- 19 recommendations.

"All visitors have their temperature checked on arrival and are asked to scan their QR app or leave contact details.

"Our aim is to provide a much-needed entertainment facility for all age groups during August when many take their annual summer holidays.”

Michael added: “As all of the local traditional fairs have been cancelled for the foreseeable future I thought this would be a great opportunity to compliment all that Jay has organised with his entertainment programme in the big marquee. "The idea was to provide something for everyone on the same site.”