THE future of Bewdley Festival is at risk if new volunteers do not come forward.

Organisers of the regional arts event, which has been a Wyre Forest favourite for 27 years, have warned the festival could “fade away and finally disappear” without new faces joining the team.

Several existing volunteers – who have helped plan the festival for many years - are standing down after 2014’s event and an appeal has been launched for “new ideas and energy”.

Anthea Collins, chairman of Bewdley Festival Society, said: “Have you ever looked at a festival programme and thought ‘I could do better than that’?”

“Could you or someone you know help mould and shape the festival of the future?

“The event needs new organisers and it may not last much longer if we don’t bring in new people to programme daytime and evening events or undertake tasks such as book-keeping, marketing and fundraising.

“We’re not going to pretend that no effort is involved but there is great fun and satisfaction to be had.

“What’s needed is not a case of just suggesting acts and shows, but also talking to agents, booking acts and making sure that shows run smoothly.

“If you are a fan of music, drama, theatre, comedy, art, poetry or literature - now is the time to get involved.

“We will, of course, offer a very warm welcome and lots of support and mentoring to new team members.”

The popularity of the festival has been underlined by this year’s ticket sales. Midge Ure’s opening night and Max Keen’s daytime performance have sold out while places at Courtney Pine’s and Kiki Dee’s shows are selling quickly.

Several other performers are also proving in demand including Doug Scott, Joan Bakewell, Judy Cornwell, Chris Mullin and Lesley Smith.

Anyone interested in helping Bewdley Festival survive can call the organisers on 01299 404808, email admin@bewdleyfestival.org.uk or visit the festival office at St George’s Hall.