ORGANISERS of a popular fossil hunting festival in Lyme Regis have taken the 'difficult decision' not to proceed with the event this year.

The move is due to a lack of available funding for the festival, which usually takes place over the bank holiday in May.

Last year the 14th edition of the showcase saw thousands of people descend on Lyme Regis to learn about the seaside town's rich fossil and paleontology past on the Jurassic Coast.

It has been run by the Lyme Regis Development Trust (LRDT) charity since 2005, which said it was 'sad' to be passing on the 'disappointing news', adding a lack of cash has left its funds 'financially exposed'.

However it did state that it would 'consider' a return for the popular festival next year. 

"Despite a great deal of hard work by the organisers, our board have had to take the difficult decision not to proceed with the Fossil Festival this year," the LRDT said in a statement.

"In simple terms, the lack of response from the many public and charitable organisations that have funded us in the past leaves our charity financially exposed and we cannot take the risk of adding very significantly to our current annual deficit.

"We, like the vast majority of smaller charities, are currently operating at a loss as local government and central government funding is reduced.

"As I’m sure you will be aware, many funders are addressing crucial human need around fuel and food insecurity at present.

"The board of Lyme Regis Development Trust have stated that it will consider a return to the Fossil Festival in 2024.

"Please do get in touch if you need more information. Once again, we’re very sorry to have to pass on this disappointing news. Hopefully see you in 2024."