A TRADITIONAL village fete has been cancelled for the second year running because of a lack of helpers.

Only two new people volunteered to help make the Hartford Young NSPCC Rose Fete happen after the committee was forced to cancel 2013’s event.

Organisers had hoped that the first cancellation would just be a ‘temporary blip’ but there are still too few volunteers to put on the event.

A statement issued by the committee said: “After the disappointment of cancelling the event last year it was hoped that enough people would rally round to save this annual children’s event.

“However, the meeting in November to enlist support attracted only two people, both of whom offered significant help.

“Since that time a few other offers of help have been received but unfortunately the number of jobs which need filling far outweigh those which are covered.

“A variety of options were discussed in detail but none of them proved viable for one reason or another.

“The committee wish to say a huge thank you to all those who offered help and to all those who have given support in the past.”

The rose fete, which would have celebrated its 65th anniversary last year, has raised close to £50,000 for the NSPCC during its history.

Hartford Young NSPCC committee is now looking for new members and ideas for fundraising.

The statement said: “While the rose fete has traditionally been one of the main annual fund raising events, Hartford Young NSPCC committee work continually throughout the year hosting events to raise much needed funds for this most worthwhile charity.

“At present the committee has dwindled to four or five regular members and is desperate to recruit new members to help raise funds, run events and introduce new fundraising ideas.”

Anyone who can help should ring Anne on 07550 084492 or Helen on 07754 079279.