The organisers of Monmouth Festival have announced that they will not be hosting a main stage for as many days this year.

This decision has been made partly in response to comments that have been in the local paper over the last few weeks, organisers explained.

A spokesperson for the Festival said: "This decision has not been taken lightly but taking into consideration recent comments and discussions the Festival feels that this was the only acceptable course of action."

Reducing the Main Stage programme from nine to five day was in response to similar feedback over the last several years, and also due to the Festival having decreasing levels of attendance on certain nights.

A spokesperson said: "It has become very clear a Main Stage nine day festival is no longer viable or supported. Festival traders, who play a crucial part in financing the event, have also indicated that the nine day format is no longer attractive with its limited trading hours and nightly put up and take down."

Organisers also took the opportunity to thank the businesses and volunteers that have been involved with the Festival over the years.

There will be five nights of music in the Riverside, a Classical programme at St Mary’s and some additional events to be confirmed for this year’s Monmouth Festival.

A spokesperson said: "We are continuing to work with Monmouthshire County Council to find a suitable solution for the Main Stage Monmouth Festival 2020."See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.