Difficulty getting a refund following disappointing Christmas drone show

Attendees of a Christmas drone performance in West Sussex have voiced frustration over difficulties obtaining refunds. Instead of monetary compensation, organisers have offered free tickets to a rescheduled show in Kent.

Guests at the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Drone Show in Ardingly on Sunday reported numerous issues. Many said the drones malfunctioned, food and rides were excessively priced, and leaving the venue was a challenge due to a muddy parking field.

Lumina Sky Theatre, the event organisers, issued an apology and noted that some drones at the South of England Showground encountered "technical difficulties." They explained that food vendors and fairground attractions were operated by third parties, who determined pricing. "We sincerely apologise to those whose enjoyment of the event was impacted by these problems," a spokesperson said.

Kerrie Niblett from Burgess Hill told BBC Radio Sussex she was denied a refund. While the theatre offered her six tickets to a different show in Maidstone, she stated she would not accept them. "I'll never attend again, even if it's free," she added. Another attendee mentioned that only around 50 drones were visible, far fewer than the 600 advertised.

Ms. Niblett said she did not even watch the drone display, which had a ticket price of 15.99 plus booking fees. Parking cost 7. She described the event management as poor and blamed organisers for failing to deliver the promised experience. "The technical issues were not the worst part; it was the lack of preparation," she said.

Lumina Sky Theatre expressed disappointment, stating they had invested months in designing a "spectacular" Christmas show but were unable to meet their high standards. Danni Hilder from Eastbourne described the drone display as "atrocious" and said the venue lacked a festive atmosphere, with only a tree and inflatable reindeer present.

Attempts to contact the organisers for refunds have been largely unsuccessful. A Facebook support group advocating for full reimbursements has gathered around 1,400 members. Chris Evans, who created the group, accused the theatre of misrepresenting the show. The website had promised a "mesmerising swarm of 600 drones," yet many attendees reported far fewer drones in view. "It's a clear case of overpromising and underdelivering," Evans commented.

Author: Grace Ellison