AN appeal for volunteers to keep a popular family event running in a Dales town has fallen on deaf ears leading to its demise.

Nobody came forward to volunteer to help with the running of Sedbergh Gala at the annual general meeting forcing the committee to cancel the annual event in 2017 along with the children's party and town firework display.

Earlier this month the Gazette reported that crucial committee members - chairman, treasurer and secretary - had resigned and unless there was an injection of new blood the gala, which has been running since 1963, was in jeopardy.

Current committee chairman Margie McVoy said in a statement released this week: “Due to low numbers of group members, there will be no events in 2017 but the group will continue and maintain funds for a period of two years, in case sufficient people come forward during that time.

"Once that time has elapsed, the group will disseminate its funds to another local organisation.”

"In recent years there have been a number of new initiatives which have brought new events to the town, such as the popular Sedbergh Sports, Sheepfest, CycleFest and a Food Festival in 2017, however the town’s small population puts a limit on the number of volunteers available to help run events."

The gala was held for the 53rd time in May and over the years has provided an entertaining family day out featuring traditional attractions such as fell racing and fancy dress competitions.

Speaking to the Gazette, Ms McVoy said: "I think the community will miss it. Since last week we have already had a few people saying they are sad to see it go. I hope people miss it!

"We have tried different things and without having new people the committee is struggling and starting to run out of ideas. Really we are looking for new people to bring new ideas.

"I think a large part of it is that there are other great events that need volunteers too. There are a limited number of people in Sedbergh willing to do things like this. There are so many events which means a thinner spread of people.

Cllr Nick Cotton, who represents Sedbergh and Kirkby Lonsdale on South Lakeland District Council, said: "It's really sad. I hope this is not the end of the gala. It is one of those things that it would be a shame to lose.

"This year Sedbergh had its first cycling festival, so it seems that people are willing to take these sort of things on. In small parishes you often find that a few people seem to do everything.

Other people who have attended the gala over the years have responded to the news with disappointment that an event that they value has come to an end.

Commenting on the announcement on the gala's Facebook page, Malcolm Dixon said: "I live in Kendal and it is a few years since I came to Sedbergh for the gala but I can remember how much my family enjoyed the day.

"It seems so sad that the children of Sedbergh have lost such a fun-filled day plus their Christmas party."

Also commenting, Pete Hill added: "Such a shame if this gala comes to an end. It will be the loss of a magnificent tradition and will be a massive loss to future generations of families, thanks for all your hard work. Fingers crossed for the future."

The 2016 fireworks event, without a bonfire this year, will take place on Bonfire Night, November 5. Food and beverages will be available on the People’s Hall car park. Gates open at 6.30pm with fireworks at 7pm and 7.30pm – entrance is free.