THE annual fireworks display on the Mersey at the Runcorn Widnes Bridge has been cancelled for the second year running.

Halton Borough Council says it has taken the decision to 're-prioritise resources' as part of its continuing response to the coronavirus pandemic.

It is the second year in a row that the popular display has been axed, with last year's event being scrapped due to surging Covid-19 infection rates.

Council bosses had hoped the event would return this year to celebrate Halton becoming the Liverpool City Region's Borough of Culture, but those hopes have now been dashed.

But the council has announced the Brindley Theatre will be reopening on September 27 with a full programme of events.

Cllr Paul Nolan, executive board member for culture, said: "While I am sorry that the fireworks event will not be going ahead, I'm delighted to be able to announce the reopening of the Brindley after so long.

"It is a much-loved venue and has been sorely missed by theatre-goers.

"The theatre has been closed since March 2020 and has been playing an important role in supporting the roll-out of the vaccination programme.

"The team there have been working really hard to put arrangements in place that will allow shows to now take place."