THE National Trust has been accused of being irresponsible after refusing to cancel an open-air cinema performance – despite a weather warning for heavy rain.
The Vyne House, in Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, went ahead with its screening of Bohemian Rhapsody last night as rain lashed down on revellers.
Customers of the £12.50 sold-out event urged the organisers to call it off after the Met Office issues a yellow warning for rain.
Recently other open-air cinemas have cancelled their events if the weather has been unfavourable.
However yesterday the Trust emphasised the showing would continue regardless of the expected rain and wind.
A statement on its website read “Important notice - The performance of Bohemian Rhapsody tonight will be going ahead. Doors will be opening at 7.30pm and hot drinks service will be available throughout the night.”
Those on social media were quick to joke that more than hot drinks would be needed to stave off the autumnal-esque conditions.
One woman said she had her “waterproof poncho” at the ready.
Another said: “I’ve had this booked for months and was really looking forward to it. I know the British weather is very unpredictable but this is just foolish and quite frankly irresponsible in terms of health and safety.”
One woman sympathised with the fact cancelling would be a loss of earnings for the Trust but suggested a complimentary alternative was given to ticket holders instead. “Let’s be real, it’s not going to be an enjoyable experience for anyone. Why not cancel because it’s the right thing to do and offer complimentary entry to the house.”
One customer said: “It’s pouring rain and strong winds forecast. To go ahead would be ridiculous, please either reschedule or provide us with a refund.”
And another described it as “coporate greed”.
Photographs shared on social media showed a wet field with the handful of brave people who did turn out for the event hiding beneath umbrellas.
One who did attend the evening commented: “Yes it was wet, but all of our party enjoyed the evening and we still managed a picnic in the rain.”
The National Trust has been contacted for comment.
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