ORGANISERS fear a popular carnival may not be able to continue after making a loss of £1,200.

The total cost of staging this summer's Adlington Carnival was a massive £26,000 and despite drawing in the crowds, calculations have revealed organisers have failed to break even, making a loss of £1,200.

It is feared costs will rise again next year and without increased support from the local community, the event may not be financially viable.

The Carnival Committee spends the whole year raising funds to pay for the August event, with the marquee alone costing £7,000.

They must also find money for an electrician, plumber, toilets, skip hire, water, electricity and fencing as well as bands for the parade and cabaret acts for the marquee.

The carnival street collection, which helps pay for the bands and Morris dancers, was also lower this year.

Committee member Jennie Snape said: "We are trying to revamp the carnival to see if we can use more facilities in the village, for example, using the village hall instead of the marquee.

"We could also do with some help from the local pubs."

With costs rising each year, the committee is already looking for fundraising ideas for next year's carnival.

They are keen for anyone who can provide sponsorship, or volunteer some of their time, to support them.

Mrs Snape said: "We are asking for help from the public as we feel that it could be a struggle this year.

"We particularly need men for some of the more manual jobs.

"We really do not want to have to stop such a popular event, but it simply comes down to if people are not prepared to put into it, then it won't go on."

Anyone who can help should contact Jennie Snape on 01257 480807.