ORGANISERS of the popular Stourport Carnival have said the long-term future of the event is "unknown".

The team behind the annual event has responded to rumours this year's edition, which was held last Saturday, could be the last.

The first Stourport Carnival was held in 1925 and has been a key community event in the local calendar ever since, with thousands attending.

In a post on the Stourport Carnival Facebook page, a spokesperson for the event said: "We’ve noticed a few mentions of people hearing that this was possibly the last carnival.

"They aren’t rumours. The long-term future of Stourport Carnival is unknown.

"Our hope and goal is to get to our 100th year which is in 2025".

The organisers said that the event can continue if current committee members are still on board or new committee members join the team.

They added: "The combination of having enough people to plan, organise and successfully and safely run the event combined with being able to afford to put on the carnival that everybody expects are two key factors that will inevitably determine whether it continues after 2025".

This year's event attracted bumper crowds, who visited the town to enjoy the parades, live music and firework display.

It was hailed a "fabulous day" by organisers and visitors.

"I think it’s safe to say we’ve not seen that amount of people line the streets for the parade in a long time", organisers said on Facebook.

"Stourport you certainly came out to show your support.

"It was a fab day, the weather was amazing and we are so proud to be able to put on a community event like this that is enjoyed by so many".

Delighted visitors also took to Facebook to share their praise.

Jan Buchan said: "What a truly wonderful day. Well done to all involved."

Glenys Bishop said: "Congratulations on a fabulous day."

Hazel Wallis said: "It was great to see such a turnout."