'Not made lightly': Leeds St Patrick's Day parade cancelled as organisers cite new safety rules
This year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Leeds will be without its popular parade, organisers have announced.
The committee behind the popular celebrations of the Irish patron saint has confirmed that this year's event will not feature its famous floats and walkers.
Organisers told the Yorkshire Evening Post the decision had been taken to allow the committee to carry out internal training that will be passed on to representatives ahead of the 2027 parade.
They said new safety requirements, which only came to light in February, had not left enough time to prepare volunteers - particularly for larger community groups and schools that traditionally take part.
The training relates to updated guidance due to become law next year under Martyn's Law, introduced in response to the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing.
In a statement posted on social media, organisers said the decision had been made “due to matters out of our control”.
“This is a decision which was not made lightly, and we hope to have this aspect of the parade back next year; bigger and better than ever,” the committee said.
However, celebrations will still take place at Millennium Square on Sunday, March 15 - two days before St Patrick's Day itself.
The committee added: “There will be lots of entertainment and displays in the square for all to enjoy. It is still set to be a brilliant day, so don't miss out.”
Leeds' St Patrick's Day parade has become a central part of the city's annual celebrations, with previous events featuring dozens of floats along with walkers, dancers and musicians through the city centre.