A well-known historic fete has been cancelled after an increase in costs and a drop in stallholders.

The Borden Village Fete, held at the Playstool recreation ground near Sittingbourne, has been run by a committee for more than a decade.

It was set to take place on Saturday, July 19. However, on Tuesday (May 6), it was announced the event will be “taking a break”.

“A number of factors have led to this unfortunate decision – a limited response from stallholders (only 20% have confirmed compared with previous years), increased costs, a reduction in grants and the number of volunteers,” the statement said.

“We just don't feel we can meet the standard of event which the village and we have come to expect.

“As a result, we have decided to pause the event for 2025 and focus on preparing for a better fete in 2026 – raising funds and increasing awareness.”

Those who have paid for a stall are set to either be fully refunded or have their slot rolled over to next summer.

The committee say they appreciate the “understanding and support” and have scheduled a new date for Saturday, July 11.

It added: “If we are able, we will arrange a fun afternoon for children during the summer holidays and plans are well under way for the Christmas event on the November 23. Look out for details.”

The event started as a celebration for returning Second World War servicemen and soon became an annual part of village life due to its popularity.

In the 1960s, it included airborne displays and marching bands such as the Dagenham Girl Pipers.

However, it closed during the 1970s after the organisers, made up of local farmers and residents, felt it was too expensive to continue.

In June 2013, the event returned, and more than 1,000 people attended.

The parish council decided to bring it back after a positive response to smaller celebrations held for the royal wedding and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

It is understood that the committee had obtained sponsorships from local businesses and money from Swale council’s local engagement fund.

Previous attractions included a bouncy castle, children’s fancy dress competition, a merry-go-round and fairground organ, a dog training exhibition and a flying model aircraft demonstration.

The Borden Village Fete Committee has been approached for a comment.