ORGANISERS have plugged a funding hole that threatened to swallow a popular summer festival, guaranteeing its survival in its 15th anniversary year.

The future of Gorleston's Cliff Top Festival looked bleak when it emerged the borough council could no longer provide public liability cover for the event which draws tens of thousands of people.

But now after some persuasive begging and the help of a local broker who made it his mission to find a cheaper quote while waiving his own fee, the coast is clear.

Co-ordinator Vicky Smith was relieved to be going ahead although the delay could affect the scale of the event.

Miss Smith said one of the most difficult decisions had been putting up the prices for all the stalls, trade and charity. The combined efforts had raised around �2000 - enough to ensure gala day on July 28 could go ahead.

'The idea of putting up prices had been mentioned early on but no-one was really keen. But when we had this disaster people's minds were soon changed. Some people had been paying the same rates since 1998.

'We have been able to cut costs with fencing saving around �150 because the fireworks have been moved. And we have also had Epic Offshore who are paying for our largest generator.'

Committee members who took their begging bowls round local businesses secured a flurry of donations ranging from �25 to �300.

Miss Smith said, adding: 'We are open to anyone or any groups that would like to perform or display on Saturday.'

To find out more make contact via gorlestonclifftopfestival@hotmail.co.uk.