Christian festival Spring Harvest has axed its 2021 in-person events, saying it is "no longer viable or responsible" to host the gatherings at their flagship Butlins locations.
Essential Christian, the company that runs the Spring Harvest events, said that they did not come to the decision lightly.
“We remain confident in Butlin’s ability to deliver safe and secure holidays,” said CEO Phil Loose. “This decision hasn’t been made lightly and is due to the unique and complex nature of the live event with its massive volunteer team, huge children’s programme and large additional infrastructure.”
The company said it continues to plan for events in 2022, but in the meantime, Spring Harvest Home 2021, the online event which has already been months in the planning, is set to be “bolder and better than ever before”.
Loose added: “We want to thank you for your prayers and your patience during recent weeks in particular. We now look forward to welcoming you to Spring Harvest starting Easter Sunday evening as we worship, learn, laugh and take time to reflect together on a challenging year; celebrating the Unrivalled God.”
According to the director of the Spring Harvest event, Abby Guinness, Butlins will be issuing refunds to anyone who has already paid a deposit for the full event.
Spring Harvest had to be moved online last year due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.