THE fat lady may have sung to pronounce the end for Nantwich's popular folk and roots festival due to lack of support by local councils.

Organisers are warning that this year's event, although a major success, will be the last unless some immediate financial support is pledged.

Since its creation in 1999 the festival has grown into an international event that attracts performers from around the world and encourages new talent.

Organiser Dave Hogg said: "It is deeply regrettable that we are having to consider ending the festival but we have struggled over the past seven years to run it with the minimum of funds and support.

"In Bridgnorth, Shropshire they receive £10,000 per annum from their local council for a similar event.

"We do not need this amount but realistically the festival can't go forward without the means to plan ahead."

Although the event last month was a spectacular occasion, it made a loss of around £2,500 and the team cannot apply for any funding grants until this debt is cleared.

Mr Hogg added: "This has been an ongoing problem from the start and without some form of financial support it will not be happening in 2006.

"This will be a major loss to the town both socially and economically."

Small grants of up to £500 have been donated for specific projects by town, borough and county councils in the past.

But a long-term commitment is now needed to ensure the event carries on running free workshops and bringing in exciting musical acts.

Dave and fellow organisers have teamed up with Nantwich Now Market Town Project manager Beverley Cope, who will help them to develop a business plan, including a sponsorship and funding strategy.

But co-organiser Clare Smith thinks this may be too little too late.

She said: "With the team concentrating on fundraising and getting grants we are not left with enough time or energy to put all our efforts into the festival.

"Everyone says they value the event and don't want it to stop but we need them to take action with financial or practical support.

"We are non-profit making but local businesses and shops benefit from the number of visitors and it would be an enormous shame to lose the additional benefits the festival brings to the town."