FEAR of flying sparked by the war in Iraq has led to four countries pulling out of a well-known Youth Music Festival over Easter.

Initially, Swedish and Canadian bands pulled out of the event at Harrogate, but yesterday it was announced that groups from Armenia and the Ukraine had also withdrawn.

But in true show-must-go-on style the event will still go ahead with local bands and musicians, leaving it a totally homespun affair.

Event official Sharon Canavar said: "Despite the international withdrawals local groups are absolutely committed to ensure the festival goes ahead."

She said parents of the foreign youngsters planning to appear in Harrogate had been concerned about allowing them to take international flights because of the war.

Fears of reprisals or revenge attacks had been causing parents growing worries, she said.

The scaled-down festival will celebrate its 30th year with a launch parade around the town centre at 11am on April 19.