COUNCIL bosses say they have no idea when parts of Castle Park will re-open after it was battered by storms while hosting the Colchester Food and Drink Festival.

Lower Castle Park and Kings Meadow have been closed since Monday after they became waterlogged.

The meadow is due to host the Essex Castle charity cycle ride on Saturday.

But organisers have been assured by council bosses the venue will be fit for use by then.

Heavy rain and thousands of visitors to the Food and Drink Festival led to the ground being churned up.

A Colchester Council spokesman said yesterday: “In the light of further rain forecast for this afternoon, we are planning to continue to restrict public access today and tomorrow, to prevent further damage to the ground.

“Contractors will be on site to repair the ruts tomorrow, in the expectation that the area will reopen as soon as it has dried out sufficiently to be useable.”

Annie Feltham, borough councillor responsible for leisure, added: “Looking at the weather, we are meant to be having more rain which is pretty dire but we are doing the best we can to make it available.

“I was at the festival myself and it was terribly boggy which was a shame because the food was great.”

Colchester’s High Steward Sir Bob Russell, whose home is close to the meadow, added: “Kings Meadow provides an important parking area for those attending events in Castle Park, as well as for Cricket Week, and without this space being used for parking then I think some of the events might not otherwise take place.

“In the past, the ground has quickly recovered after being given expert attention. Provided this is done this time as well, and I am sure the council will ensure that it is, and provided the cost of repair is borne by the event organisers, then hopefully all will turn out satisfactory.” It has in the past.”

John Lister, who organises Saturday’s charity cycle, urged people to still sign up to the event.

He said: “People are welcome to raise money for a charity of their choice, or else just ride for the fun of it.

“There are 25, 50 or 75 mile fully-signed routes with pick-up vehicles, mechanics, first aid and refreshment stops.”