Two Blackburn music festivals will not be taking place this year, after a woman died at one in 2023. 

Restricted Rocks, which usually takes place in April, and Restricted Forest, usually held in June, take place at Witton Park.

It has been confirmed that both events, organised by Restricted Events which has operated events at the park for seven years, have been “temporarily suspended”. This is after a woman died following the Restricted Forest festival, last year.

Stephanie Thorpe, from Farnworth, died on Sunday June 25 in Blackburn Hospital following the Restricted Forest music festival. She was 32-years-old.

Lancashire Telegraph: Stephanie ThorpeStephanie Thorpe (Image: Public)

Stephanie was a mother to two-year-old Alfie Pendlebury and a loving partner to Carl Pendlebury.

She studied beauty and childcare at Bolton College before moving on to her real passion as a teacher helping children with additional needs.

An inquest into Stephanie's death was opened in December.

The council and Restricted Events CEO Zander Lawrenson said they have decided not to proceed with further events until the coroner’s inquest into the death has taken place.  

Restricted Forest is now set to take place at Orrell Hill Woods in Liverpool, on Saturday, June 22.

Mr Lawrenson has apologised to “thousands of people” who would have attended this year’s events but says events have been temporarily suspended as a mark of respect.

Mr Lawrenson said: “Restricted Events have operated events successfully in Witton Park for seven years and these include Restricted Forest and Restricted Rocks.

“Our events take months of planning from an organisational and safety perspective to ensure that not only is the event a success, but everyone can be guaranteed safety.

“As was reported, sadly someone passed away following last year's Restricted Forest event.

“As a mark of respect for this person, we have temporarily suspended events here in Blackburn until the outcome of the inquest.

“Once this is finalised we intend to consult with the council with a view to resuming our events in the future.

“We apologise to the thousands of people who would have attended this year's events and look forward to seeing you all soon.”

Martin Eden, strategic director of environment and operations, said: “The council took the decision not to proceed with any further events until after the coroner’s inquest has taken place.

“We extend our thoughts and deepest condolences to family and friends at such an extremely difficult and sad time.”