THE future of one of Ramsbottom’s most popular events is in doubt.

A military extravaganza in the town – which forms part of the annual War Weekend – may be axed because of a lack of funding.

Organisers East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has confirmed that the War Weekend itself will go ahead as normal. But independently organised events will not.

David Hill, who organises a number of wartime re-enactments, including a full military parade, flyover, gun displays and competitions, has revealed there will be no extra attractions to Ramsbottom this year due to a lack of funding.

Mr Hill, who lives with his wife Jean in Ramsbottom, said: “We can’t continue to fund the extra events without support from businesses in the town. Last year Ramsbottom was heaving, all the pubs, bars and restaurants were packed with visitors but only two businesses and Marshalls Mono Ltd contributed to the additional entertainment we held.

“We have had no help from the Ramsbottom Business Group as they refuse to fund the events which means there will be no extras this year. We have organised a brass band 1940s concert at St Paul’s Church and that is it.”

Gregg Fletcher, chairman of Ramsbottom Business Group, said: “The event is not a business group event and is organised by the East Lancashire Railway who work alongside the business group throughout the year. We fully support the event and member businesses in town will be dressing their shops with bunting, flags and props.

“This year is set to be bigger with more re-enactments organised and extra historical displays. This is one of the most popular events on the Ramsbottom calendar and the group and members very much look forward to it.”

Ian Schofield, Conservative candidate for Ramsbottom, said he was disappointed with the latest development.

He said: “The 1940s weekend is always very popular and I hope it will be again this year, but it is very disappointing that many of the extra events that Dave Hill organised are facing an uncertain future.

“The weekend provides a great opportunity for people to come into Ramsbottom and sample the great atmosphere but also to pay its respects to those that fought and lost their lives during the World Wars and other conflicts.”

East Lancashire Railway chairman, Mike Kelly: "Our 1940s Weekend is one of the most popular events in our annual calendar and this year looks set to be even bigger.

“We have added new entertainment and attractions, including more re-enactments and historical displays, and there is already a lot of interest around the weekend with ticket sales over 10 per cent up on 2015.

“Last year's event was our best to date and we hope to build on that with this year's line-up.”

Mr Schofield is standing in the local elections on May 5 as the Conservative candidate, also contesting the seat is Karen Leach, Labour, David Barker, UKIP and Zarrin Shannon, Green.

The War Weekend will take place on May 28, 29 and 30.