Balstock organisers have announced that the festival will not be returning to Baldock in 2018, following a ‘particularly difficult year.’

The news comes after they revealed that the fundraising total for 2017 was a massive £12,200, beating its previous record by £5,000.

The money was shared between five local causes – Baldock Girl Guides, Baldock Arts & Heritage Centre, Herts Women’s Centre, Stevenage Haven and Magic Moments Nursery School – which received £1,220 each.

The remaining £6,100 went to the Addenbrooke’s Breast Cancer Appeal in light of bereavements close to committee members, including festival treasurer Elaine LaRoche.

Balstock organiser G LaRoche, Elaine’s son, said: “I‘m sure this may be an unpopular decision in some people’s eyes, but we’ve given it much thought and the committee and I agree it’s most definitely what’s best for Balstock and for our own sanity.

“This year has been a most trying and emotional one, but the amount raised is a testament to the hard work of all our volunteers and the wonderful community spirit that has smashed our previous fundraising record.”

Balstock 2017 was a roaring success, and saw performances from Ritn Ditn, JoanOvArc and Bubounce – as many festivalgoers braved the wet weather for charity.

“Once again I’d like to thank all my committee members who work hard all year round, as well as my beloved reps, volunteers, and acts who performed,” G continued.

“Also, thanks to our local sponsors and suppliers, the general public for their generous donations and to Baldock’s publicans and the businesses who helped bulk up the charity amount.

“After this momentous record-breaking year – and because of it all the challenges it’s brought – I’ll be giving myself and my committee the next year off.

“For such a large music festival, Balstock is run by a very small committee of volunteers who work hard from February through to October.

“Think of it like Glastonbury having a ‘fallow’ year.

“We will still be helping out at fundraisers, plugging local music and hope to be back refreshed and kicking for 2019.”

For more information about the festival, see balstock.com, follow @Balstock on Twitter or search ‘Balstock Music Festival’ on Facebook.