A popular July 4 celebration organised by American airbases in west Suffolk has been cancelled due to “local threats”.

The event, organised by RAF Lakenheath and RAF Mildenhall, was due to take place at RAF Feltwell this Saturday, but a statement issued this evening said difficult decisions had to be made when “lives are on the line”.

The full statement, from the organisers, read: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the 2015 4th of July Celebration, set to be held at RAF Feltwell, is cancelled.

“The decision was made due to the most current, local threat assessments. We make every effort to ensure the safety of our airmen, their families and our UK partners and must make difficult decisions like this when lives are on the line.

“Both the main event on Saturday, July 4th, as well as the preview party scheduled for Friday, July 3rd, are cancelled.

“We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, and, whether you’re celebrating the 4th of July holiday or simply enjoying the British summer, we wish you a safe and happy weekend.”

Senior Airman Trevor McBride, from the media operations team at RAF Lakenheath, said the cancellation was not directly connected to recent terrorism attacks abroad, adding they were unable to go into exactly what the “local threats” are.

A preview party carnival was due to take place tomorrow for those who work and live on the bases.

Then on Saturday, the gates were set to open to the public for carnival rides, acrobatic displays and performances by live bands.

The RAF Red Arrows aerial team were due to perform, as well as the RAF Falcons parachuting team.

Other attractions included Old Flying Machine Company, The Fighter Collection, Birds of Prey demonstrations, the Car & Bike Show and a fireworks display.