DARWEN Gala is under threat after the organising committee decided to disband.

The long-running civic event had its 50th anniversary event last month with a variety of performances, a fun fair, stalls run by local businesses and a race to Darwen Tower.

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The voluntary committee has always been made up of members who freely give up their time with the aim of preserving the annual tradition.

But Sunnyhurst councillor Brian Taylor says he does not feel confident about its future.

“I am hopeful that there will be a new committee but I am not confident. There are so many volunteers but it feels to me that the same people are doing it all the time.

“I don’t think there’s much new blood coming through,” said Cllr Taylor.

“I think the event has meant a great deal to the people of Darwen and it’s always been a popular event. The present committee have served the event for about 12 years and it is such a shame they have gone.

“I hope new members can be found and if there’s any help that I can offer, I’d be more than happy to.”

According to a statement, the committee said it felt that new enthusiasm and ideas were needed to move the Gala into the future.

Over the years The Gala has taken place on the Borough Road playing fields, Anchor Park and Bold Venture Park and has always been preceded by a parade of floats, decorated vehicles and bands.

Cllr Paul Browne, who represents Sudell, said: “It’s come out of the blue for me, it was such a good event, one of the best we’ve had.

“I really hope someone can take over the reins.”

The outgoing committee has said it would like to thank the many organisations and public who have supported it over the years.

It said it hopes new volunteers will come forward to continue the family event.

If you have opinions and ideas about how Darwen Gala could be organised, contact Vanessa Moore by emailing darwengala1980@gmail.com.