Funfair hit by trouble will not return to Chirk

The Graham Stokes Funfair last took place in September 2015.

It had previously been held on a field in Chirk owned by Kronospan.

In a post on Facebook, Mr Stokes told residents that Kronospan had refused him permission to use the land and approaches to Chirk Town Council to use the recreation ground have been futile.

However, the woodchip factory says the site is leased out and the leaseholder made the decision to stop renting out the field when the fair attracted negative attention two years ago.

Candida Pryce-Jones, of Kronospan, said: “Following complaints by Lodgevale residents to the police regarding anti-social behaviour, the leaseholder of the land used by the travelling fair and other entertainment decided that he would not allow such events to continue, as he is perfectly entitled to do under the terms of his lease.”

Mr Stokes thanked the people of Chirk for supporting the fair over the last 30 years but announced he will not be returning.

Clerk to Chirk Town Council, Shaun Jones, said: “Two years ago there was anti-social behaviour reported at the fair and I believe the tenant told Mr Stokes that he could not return.

“He has approached the town council on two occasions looking for alternative sites and he suggested it would be good if he could use the recreation ground in the centre of Chirk.”

The land was gifted to the council but Mr Jones said it comes with covenants which means it cannot be used for a funfair.

He added: “Unfortunately these strings attached to the land means the likes of a fun fair is just not allowed.”

Chirk residents have rallied to find a site for the family event and suggested Mr Stokes uses the airfield.

But he said that it is too far out of town for children to walk and he wants to ensure everyone is safe getting to and from the fair.