Civic leaders have spoken of their disappointment after a renowned music festival was cancelled because of fears of terrorism.

This year's Harrogate International Youth Music Festival - which would have brought over a thousand performers to towns and villages across North Yorkshire - had to be abandoned after school groups in America refused to fly to Britain.

It was due to be the 30th year that the cavalcade of music and dance, which brings a major boost to the local economy, had been staged in the town.

But youngsters from the United States and Canada said they were too frightened to fly after witnessing hijacked planes crash into the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11.

Following the atrocities, Canadian authorities banned travel by school groups.

And organisers Perform Europe took the decision to cancel the event - which was due to have been staged from March 29 to April 5 - after European parties also pulled out. Mayor of Harrogate, Councillor Bob Nash, said: "This is a great disappointment because the youngsters taking part always seemed to have such a wonderful time.

"But, of course, we must understand the circumstances surrounding the decision. An event which brought together hundreds of young musicians from around the world will be very much missed."

Coun Nash said he hoped the event would return next year, as it was one of the big highlights of the North Yorkshire calendar.

Perform Europe said it had preferred to cancel the event entirely, rather than go ahead with a weaker programme.

A spokesman also confirmed that organisers were planning to resume the festival in 2003, with concerts at the Royal Hall and Harrogate International Centre under the guidance of artistic director Jon de Revere.