THERE'S been a storm of protest after the organisers of one of the most popular independent summer music events in the region put a ban on 13 to 17 year olds.

The Picnic in the Park at Thirsk has become hugely popular over the past 15 years now becoming one of the major charity concerts of the summer for many families. But scores of people have protested after organisers announced this week tickets were going on sale but that 13 to 17 year olds would not be allowed on site it is understood because of past problems.

Sarah Harrison from Easingwold said she had hoped to celebrate her 40th birthday at the event with all her family. But she has four children, one a 14 year old daughter, who will not be allowed in, so she is having to rethink plans.

She added: "A lot of local families are disgusted and upset. As far as I'm concerned this is Age discrimination. This has always been run as a family event raising money for action for children. I wonder what this charity would think if they knew teenagers were being unfairly treated.

"There has been trouble in recent years but I personally feel that they should not let in unaccompanied teenagers. I have taken my children many times over the years and was planning on going with my parents who are in their 60's this year . But now I can't go because as a family we can't attend I think it's a real shame no other solution could be found."

Another protestor said: "Surely something should be put in place before teenagers are banned, at least try another option this year."

Over 170 people had left comments on the events facebook site which were later removed, the majority protesting about the ban. On the site the organisers had said they understood the decision would upset many people and it had been the hardest one they had had to make in 14 years of organising the event.

In a statement issued to the newspaper they said: "Due to the increased popularity in recent years of Thirsk Picnic in the Park, in order to safeguard this charitable event; the organisers have reluctantly made the difficult decision to exclude all teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 years old from this year’s event for their own safety and those attending the event. We look forward to seeing you in 2020."

The event featuring Re Take That and Lee Memphis King is on July 4.