THE future of a community event which has been taking place for nearly 50 years is in doubt due to a decline in volunteer and visitor numbers.

Coggeshall Carnival, which first came to the town in the early 70s, features a traditional procession through the centre as part of the float competition followed fete at the recreation ground.

However after Saturday’s event, where the number of floats dwindled to less than half of what organisers hope to see, the committee said it is unsure whether the carnival will take place in 2019.

Kevin Game, one of three members of the organising committee, said: “It did not go well, we did not have many floats or anything and not many people turned up to watch.

“I do not know whether it will go ahead next year.

“We would love to have a good strong committee formed, but until that happens we do not know what we will do next year.

“It would be very sad if we are not able to do it any more.

“It is an important event for Coggeshall and it would be nice to get it back to what it used to be.”

Organisers said eight floats took part in Saturday’s procession, whereas in the past the event may have drawn around 20.

Although this year’s event did clash with the Marks Hall Garden and Country Show, also in Coggeshall, Mr Game said the numbers were still disappointing.

“It was too hot for many people and the kids had only just broken up from school,” he said.

“I have not really heard any positives but it is still early days.”

The plan is to form a new committee of more than ten members, with the current team only three strong.

Mr Game said: “We hope it will be a fresh start.

“We may need to take a year out to get everything organised so it may return in 2020.

“It will hopefully return to the way it used to be.”

An increase in the number of volunteers would also be welcomed by the committee.

Mr Game said: “We only had one marshal running back and forth this year.

“We very much need more people to help out.”

If you think you can help, email game71@btinternet.com.