FELIXSTOWE'S biggest event of the year is today under serious threat - unless new organisers can be found quickly.Leaders say it is not too late to save the carnival, but are warning the public there is a “strong likelihood” the extravaganza - which last year attracted more than 25,000 revellers to enjoy the seaside spectacle - may be cancelled.

FELIXSTOWE'S biggest event of the year is today under serious threat - unless new organisers can be found quickly.

Leaders say it is not too late to save the carnival, but are warning the public there is a “strong likelihood” the extravaganza - which last year attracted more than 25,000 revellers to enjoy the seaside spectacle - may be cancelled.

Several key members of the committee are set to stand down - including chairman, secretary and treasurer - and new blood must come forward immediately to start preparations.

Carnival secretary Richard Stewart, one of those quitting, said: “I would say it is almost certain there will be no Felixstowe Carnival this year as it stands - and if new organisers can be found they may decide to look to 2007 as their starting point.

“I hope though that there will be people who feel very strongly about this, that they feel it is an event which is worth saving.

“If people did come forward immediately and were prepared to work very hard, they might be able to put it on this year - we would certainly be glad to give them our contacts and help them put the wheels in motion.”

Mr Stewart said those resigning were doing so for personal reasons and it was not reasonable to expect the same organisers to carry on running something for ever.

“We have quite a small committee running this huge event and it is very hard work - in the months leading up to it and in event management over the weekend - and very time consuming, and people give their time for free,” he said.

“It's a massive task and there are very few pats on the back or thank yous for doing it.

“We do get a lot out of it, especially for what it gives the community both in terms of fun and the money it raises for good causes.

“But personally I am tired and need to stand down - you know when something is starting to be a drag and you need a break. The carnival needs people with fresh ideas and enthusiasm.”

Mr Stewart said the current committee had every right to be proud of what it had achieved in the past three years.

The event had grown, moved back to Langer Park, with a wide range of entertainment, top quality music and an air show.

Anyone who would like to be involved in the carnival should contact Mr Stewart on 01394 678910.

What do you think should happen to the carnival? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk