A LONG-STANDING tradition will be broken this year when a town scraps its annual parade of floats in favour of an on-foot procession.

For more than three decades, floats have led Peterlee's popular carnival but this year all those taking part will be walking the route instead.

The decision to abandon the floats has been taken by Peterlee Town Council, because of spiralling costs and potential health and safety problems.

Town clerk John Arthur described the decision as sad, but added: "Unfortunately, we have been left with no alternative. But we are optimistic that the on-foot procession will prove just as popular."

In recent years, he said, it has become increasingly difficult to secure the number of lorries needed for the procession.

"A lot of haulage companies now operate around the clock and simply don't have the necessary vehicles available,'' he said.

In addition, he said, firms were also concerned about the insurance covering people travelling on the back of lorries.

At its peak, the annual parade saw more than 14 floats taking part, but last year, only five lorries were available.

In view of the growing problems, Mr Arthur said: "We have decided that the time has come to look at a new way forward. Many of those who take part each year, such as the junior jazz bands, already go on foot and we have reached the decision that everyone will now walk in the parade.''

Chairman of the show committee, Councillor Bill Jeffrey, said: "I am disappointed to a degree, but we have to move on.''

Organisations that take part in the event have been informed of the change and Coun Jeffrey said that the response to the new-style parade had been positive.

The route of the parade will remain the same and will set off from Peterlee Leisure Centre at 10.30am on Saturday, September 1, and make its way to the show ground at Helford Road.

For more information, call the town council on 0191-586-2491.