Blackheath fireworks has been cancelled for a fourth year in a row as Lewisham Council say it is “impossible” to run after funding cuts from the Government.

The event was previously funded by the council and local community but has not been held since the pandemic.

Lewisham Council, which is facing funding pressures after Government cuts, said that "this is currently impossible".

The council is now prioritising "essential local service” and aiding vulnerable residents over hosting events like the fireworks display.

The possibility of reviving the display through external funding is still being explored.

The 2019 event was first thrown into doubt after Lewisham Council said it was under threat again due to "lack of funding".

A crowdfunding campaign was then organised by the council to raise £20,000 for the event - and Lewisham Council allowed the event to go ahead following the fundraiser.

The 2019 fundraiser described the event as: “a much-loved family night out that’s been going for 30 years and has become a local tradition: people who came to the display as children now come along with their own families.

“An organised display is the safest way to enjoy fireworks and every year over 80,000 people come along to enjoy the display together.

“This free community event is run by Lewisham Council and supported by a number of generous partners.”

However, the display was cancelled in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 2021 display was called off again due to "lack of funding” and has been cancelled every year since.

A spokesperson for Lewisham Council said: “Unfortunately, as a result of funding cuts from central government, the Blackheath Fireworks display will not be taking place in 2023.

“Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the display was funded almost exclusively by Lewisham Council, supported by fundraising efforts from local residents and businesses, following other partners and neighbouring local authorities withdrawing funding.

“While we have endeavoured to continue organising the display, it is not currently possible given the financial pressures facing the Council.

“After more than a decade of continued funding cuts from central government, we need to focus our limited financial resources on maintaining essential local services and supporting our most vulnerable residents.

“We will continue exploring possible options for future displays and remain open to offers of sponsorship and external funding.”