Web gossip 'damaged' festival

Unfounded internet gossip almost led to the cancellation of this year's Oswestry country music festival, angry organisers revealed today.

The rumours were spread on a country music website.

They claimed the event, which raises thousands of pounds for charity, had been axed.

Organisers said today the four-day event was definitely going ahead this month but had been moved to a smaller venue.

It will now take place at The Pump Parish Hall at Criftins near Dudleston Heath from May 22 to 25 with funds going to the Fragile X Society and Midlands Air Ambulance.

Organiser Rick Lawrence said he was disappointed that the rumours had damaged this year's event.

Mr Lawrence said the rumours will "reduce the amount of money we can give to charity."

"We normally hold it at Oswestry Showground but we decided to move it elsewhere because of a fall in bookings," he said

"We cut back the number of bands and unfortunately rumours were put on the internet that whole thing had been cancelled.

"Once the rumours start it is very hard to kill them. People read the rumours on the internet and never check with us and assume they are right. Bookings have been hit and it is disappointing but we still have 12 bands playing."

The event's head steward David Evans said he was furious about the rumours.

For further details contact the organisers on (01691) 670905 or visit www.misskittyspromotions.co.uk