The Association of Ross Traders have announced that the Ross-on-Wye May Fayre will not take place next year due to a focus on the River Festival which is due to take place in May 2016.

The May Fayre has been one of the most popular events over the last few years, with thousands of people attending the day to enjoy all the entertainment that was on offer.

A statement, released this morning by ART, stated:

"The Association of Ross Traders (A.R.T.) established the Ross-on-Wye May Fayre in 2012 to highlight what the town centre of Ross has to offer with its great range of independent shops and cafes. Each May Fayre saw the town centre brimming with all ages enjoying a great range of free entertainment, plus lots of stalls showcasing local foods and crafts.

"A.R.T. would like to say a huge thank you to the numerous volunteers who helped out before and during each event, with particular thanks to David and Yolanda MacGregor from Field Fayre The Organic Store, who ran the first two Fayres, and Helen Kiddy, from Essential Sewing Services, who took up the reigns and led the teams running the last two.

"Organising events such as these require a huge effort and lots of time from everyone involved. 2016 will see the return of the River Festival for Ross, which will take place in May. Rather than dilute the resources available A.R.T. have decided to step down from organising a May Fayre for next year in order to fully support the River Festival. It is hoped that in 2017 a range of organisations, including A.R.T., can work together to bring the May Fayre to the centre of town once again and they welcome any suggestions for those who might be involved."