Organisers of the popular Norwich Lanes Summer Fayre have announced it will not go ahead this year, citing a shortfall in funding and 'unrealistic' demands on volunteers,

The annual event, which was launched in 2010, has taken place in July to tie in with the city's Lord Mayor's celebrations and has grown from a village fete-style event to a major event attracting some 15,000 people.

But the Norwich Lanes Traders Association has decided it will not be back for what would have been its seventh outing. Instead it will be replaced by a series of smaller events throughout the spring, summer and autumn.

A spokesman said: 'After giving it careful consideration, the Norwich Lanes Traders Association committee have decided not to apply for a license to run a summer fayre in 2016.

'What started off as something akin to a village fete has grown into a highly successful event which mirrors the growing popularity of the Lanes as a whole.

'Far from being deflated, the Norwich Lanes committee have been realistic and are excited to be working on a series of smaller more manageable events in the coming months, with an announcement coming soon.'

And they were quick to stress the summer fayre could return in future years, if suitable funding and sponsorship can be found.

The spokesman said: 'This decision does not mean it's the end of the Norwich Lanes Summer Fayre, but it does give us valuable time to alter the present structure of the organisation, so we can seek much needed funding, additional partnerships & potential sponsors for years to come.

'We'd like to place on record our sincere thanks to our main supporter Norwich BID, Norwich City Council and all those who have volunteered over the years. It goes without saying we look forward to working with all of them again soon.'

In previous years, the event has celebrated the diverse shopping, music and culture on offer in the Norwich Lanes, with DJ sets, dancers and musicians rubbing shoulders with stallholders.

• What do you think of the decision? Write, giving full contact details to Letters Editor, Prospect House, Rouen Road, Norwich NR1 1RE or email eveningnewsletters@archant.co.uk