A meeting is set to be held in Hitchin next month to discuss the future of long-running town music festival Rhythms of the World.
The charity behind the festival is now solvent again after volunteers worked hard throughout 2016 to pay off all the debts following the loss-incurring 2014 and 2015 events,
But this year, RotW has had a number of senior volunteers leaving the organisation – leading to the cancellation of the town centre event planned for Sunday, July 9.
A spokesman told the Comet: “The trustees did not take the decision lightly, but agreed that it was better to cancel the event rather than risk putting on an event that did not meet the high standards of production, performance and safety that Rhythms of the World has always aspired to.
“However with any organisation of this nature, the trustees and the main event organisers quite often are only able to commit to a limited period of time.”
The charity now needs new volunteers with the right skills, aptitude and determination if it is continue as a high-quality event organiser.
The trustees are holding an open meeting at 8pm on Monday, July 10, at Club 85 in Whinbush Road to discuss the future.
The spokesman added: “We believe there is still a passion for the charity to continue to deliver high-quality community based events across Hitchin, but we need the support of the citizens of Hitchin if this is to happen.
“RotW has had many successes over the last 26 years.
“The charity has arranged amazing events, including major festivals in the town and at the Priory and a number of other outreach events – its success is entirely due to the relentless work of the many volunteers who give their time throughout the year, every year.
“All our events are organised by our volunteers and without them the organisation would not be able to put on any festival programme.”
All are welcome to attend the event, whether former, current or potentially new members of the ‘Rhythms family’ – just turn up on the night.
For more information email trustees@rotw.org.uk.
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