Organisers have had to cancel an annual village event – because it has become too popular.
The Appleton Roebuck Scarecrow Weekend and Beer Festival was due to take place on 22 and 23 June.
But the committee behind the event at the village south of York have had to pull the plug this year.
They broke the news in a Facebook post saying: “Due to the success of our event in recent years and the increasing number of visitors to our event we have run into licensing issues and feel we are unable to safely hold the event in 2024.
“Regrettably we are cancelling the Appleton Roebuck Scarecrow Weekend and Beer Festival for 2024.
“We know how much the local community love the event so instead we are looking to do a smaller event for the local community in place of it. Further details to follow in the next few weeks.
“There will be NO Scarecrows displayed in the village.”
They said that the event had reached the capacity they were permitted under the current event licensing arrangements.
“Exceeding the capacity means applying for a completely different type of licence, which has a much more onerous and time intensive application process.”
The festival had grown in popularity, featuring some of the biggest and most elaborate scarecrows anywhere.
And the beer festival, supported by the Yorkshire Heart Vineyard & Brewery, was another big draw.
For the last three years, Victoria Charles of YorkMix Radio has broadcast her show from the festival.
“There is fantastic community spirit in Appleton Roebuck and great enthusiasm for the festival which has grown it each year,” she said.
“It’s been wonderful to be a part of it.”
People reacted with dismay – but understanding – to the news. One said: “Gosh what a shame!
“Hopefully there could be a solution for 2025 to bring it back bigger and better! It’s the highlight of the village and community.”
The organisers added: “Thanks to all of our lovely supporters – we’re really gutted too.”