A MUSIC festival expected to attract thousands of fans has been cancelled due to poor ticket sales.

Reggae star Lee “Scratch” Perry, Craig Charles and 70s punk band The Undertones were among the performers lined up for Riverside Live next month.

It was due to be held in Riverside Park, in Chester-le-Street, on Sunday, August 28.

But Stanley Events, the group, behind the festival has confirmed it is no longer going ahead.

A spokesman said: “It is with regret that we have to announce the cancellation of this year’s Riverside Live festival.

“The current financial climate has impacted badly on ticket sales.

“The low revenues so far generated mean that to proceed, is sadly, not feasible.”

The festival was due to feature 80-year-old Jamaican reggae legend Perry, who worked with Bob Marley, the Beastie Boys, Max Romeo, and was to perform his 1976 album Super Ape in full.

Actor and DJ Craig Charles, of Red Dwarf and Coronation Street fame, was also due to play, alongside The Ska Vengers, Beth Macari and 100% Overproof.

A second stage, featuring local talent, had also been arranged.

The Stanley Events spokesman said efforts had been made to save the festival. He added: “We have explored every possibility in an attempt to proceed with the event but we have come to the extremely difficult conclusion that cancellation is our only option.

“We would like to record our thanks to the bands who had agreed to play, the fans who had purchased tickets, and anyone else who has supported Riverside Live this year.

“We apologise sincerely for any inconvenience that we may have caused but we are not alone in having to cancel events in the area due to unexpectedly low demand.”

Most music lovers will have paid £30 for their tickets although VIP packages were also available.

Stanley Events has said people hoping to go to the festival will be able to get their money back.

The spokesman said: “Refunds for all tickets purchased online will be sent automatically. Physical ticket-holders can obtain a refund from point of purchase.”

For further information, please email: riversidelive15@gmail.com.