The display was due to be part of the Manningtree Town Regatta, a long-running community event held on the River Stour, and was called off over safety concerns amid hot, dry weather. The regatta, organised by Stour Sailing Club, went ahead as planned with sailing races, mud sports and other traditional activities drawing large crowds. Speaking on Saturday, a spokesman for the Regatta said: "Sadly we have taken the really difficult decision to cancel the Regatta Fireworks that were planned for this evening due to the drought conditions. Essex was officially declared in drought after a prolonged period of high temperatures and very low rainfall. The regatta, celebrating its 90th anniversary, remains a popular fixture in the Manningtree calendar, offering family-friendly fun and celebrating the town’s maritime heritage despite the absence of its traditional fireworks finale.