A popular Suffolk fireworks display has been cancelled after three unexploded bombs were found at the site. 

The Big Night Out was expected to be held in Long Melford this coming Friday.

However, a number of unexploded bombs were found at the site on Wednesday afternoon.

East Anglian Daily Times: Big Night Out in Long Melford has been cancelledBig Night Out in Long Melford has been cancelled (Image: Newsquest)

In a statement posted on social media, organisers said: "On November 9, three unexploded bombs were found on the park at Melford Hall. 

"They have been safely removed, but unfortunately this has raised concern that there are potentially more. 

"For the safety of all we have had to cancel the event. 

"Big Night Out is cancelled."

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said officers were called to the stately home at about 4.15pm on Wednesday to reports that three small unexploded mortar bombs had been discovered in the grounds of the hall. 

An army bomb disposal team was also called to attend. 

They examined the items and made the devices safe to remove from the site, with no detonations required. 

It is understood that the army did not leave the site until 1.15am on Thursday.

A spokesman for the National Trust, which manages Melford Hall, said: "Unexploded ordnance was discovered at Melford Hall and cleared by the police overnight.

"Following their advice, we now need to make sure the wider area is safe.

“The unexploded ordnance was found in the west of the park, by event organisers setting up for the Big Night Out.”

East Anglian Daily Times: Circus at previous Big Night Out eventCircus at previous Big Night Out event (Image: Newsquest)

Andrew Haggar, the president of Project Seven, the fundraising organisation that runs the Big Night Out event, said: "It is disappointing that we have had to cancel the event, but safety is number one priority."

People who purchased a ticket are able to get a refund by going to Melford Hall between 10am and 6pm where a member of Project Seven will be able to help.

The fireworks display was saved after a row earlier this year after the permission for use of the venue was initially withdrawn.

The Big Night Out, which also involves a fairground, food outlets and bonfire, is held in the village to mark Bonfire Night every November.

East Anglian Daily Times: Big Night Out in Long MelfordBig Night Out in Long Melford (Image: Newsquest)

The future of the event was called into question after the National Trust withdrew permission for use of the parkland.

However, the National Trust U-turned the decision and allowed the event to be held at the grounds. 

It would have been the first time the event would have been held since 2019 after it was cancelled in 2020 and 2021 due to coronavirus pandemic