Officials have shared their disappointment over the cancelled Didcot Pride Festival following anti-social behaviour which led to an arrest at a music event last month.
Didcot Pride Festival was scheduled to take place at Boundary Park on Saturday, August 24, however it has been cancelled because organisers "don’t feel they can deliver a safe event at present."
This is due to anti-social behaviour which took place in Boundary Park at Bands on the Boundary last month.
Bands on the Boundary took place from Friday, June 28 until Sunday, June 30 and was meant to be a "family-friendly event".
READ MORE: Didcot Pride cancelled due to anti-social behaviour concerns
Speaking on the disorder at the event, a Thames Valley Police spokesman said: "Designed for the local community to enjoy activities and live music, the event unfortunately attracted a group of intoxicated youths who caused significant disruption.
"This group created a disturbance well into the night, engaging in fights and creating a hostile environment that affected local residents.
"The evening of June 29 saw continued disorder, resulting in the arrest of one male for 13 offences, including criminal damage to vehicles, racially aggravated public order, and assault on emergency workers.
“Due to the escalating situation, Acting Inspector Michael Havers invoked a Section 34 Dispersal Authority to manage the unruly crowd."
Councillor David Rouane, leader of south Oxfordshire District Council, said: "It's disappointing that it's not going to go ahead, but in terms of Didcot Pride itself, we carry on having our monthly socials and we have our Facebook page so people can contact us."
Didcot Pride, which is separate to Didcot Pride Festival, held several events throughout June.
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He added that he has been asked if the Pride Festival has been singled out, but he said this was not the case.
He said: "This just happens to be the next event."
Leader of Didcot Town Council, councillor Chris Jennings said: "As a supporter of diversity within our town and wider area, I am personally saddened that the antics of a few individuals have spoiled what would have been an inclusive event for all.
"The town council will work with the authorities and agencies such as the police and ensure that this situation is not repeated.
"There is no place in Didcot for those who create fear and cause harm intentionally, with projects such as the Youth Council and neighbourhood plan we hope to improve the utilities and services available for all residents and move on from this very unfortunate episode."
Deputy leader of Didcot Town Council, councillor Kelly Morrison agreed and said: "I was very disappointed by the cancellation of the Didcot Pride event, I was planning to attend it myself."
Didcot Town Councillor Mocky Khan also shared his disappointment: "I was disappointed to hear that due to the actions and behaviour of a minority Didcot Pride Festival has been cancelled.
"I hope Didcot Pride Festival comes back next year and future events are held successfully without any incidents."
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