AN historic village tradition is set to be wound up soon unless volunteers can be found to keep it going.

The future of Falkland Festival, which has been held in the royal burgh every June for more than 25 years, is hanging in the balance due to a shortage of committee members - and local people are being urged to come forward in a last-gasp bid to at least save the street fair.

Falkland Festival Society chairman Ewen Stark, who is stepping down after more than 10 years, told the Fife Herald that it was becoming increasingly difficult to find people prepared to organise the musical and community events, which include hill races, ceilidhs, treasure hunts and exhibitions.

HIGHLIGHT

But he said that the medieval street fair would be the biggest loss.

"The street fair is undoubtedly the highlight of the festival and it would be a tragedy if it had to fold," he said.

"It generates a significant income for the traders who take part as well as local groups such as the Scouts and the SWRI.

"There have been suggestions that it is merged with the Big Tent Festival but I don't think that would be appropriate.

"The street fair is a local event that benefits the local community, and it would be completely overshadowed.

"I would hope that some of the businesses in the village would come forward to help save what is a great Falkland tradition, as they do benefit economically from it."

BYGONE

Held against the imposing backdrop of Falkland Palace, the street fair aims to evoke a flavour of life in the community in bygone days, and many of the stallholders and visitors don fancy dress for the occasion.

As well as attracting crowds of local residents, the event also boosts tourist numbers and brings in thousands of pounds extra to the local economy. Anyone is interested in joining the festival committee is asked to contact Mr Stark on 07743 183446