LARGE scale celebrations of Saltburn's Victorian history will not take place this summer because of a lack of volunteers and funding from the local authority.

The Heritage celebrations, also known as Victorian Week, have become a popular event in the seaside town.

But this year, a few small-scale events will be the only evidence of the annual celebrations of the Victorian era.

Increasing travel and leisure time in the late 19th and early 20th centuries saw visitors flocking to Saltburn for the first time and led to the growth of the town. Every year, townspeople celebrate this important part of their heritage.

But in recent years, there has been a serious decline in the number of volunteers and no newcomers to take over.

And at the same time, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has withdrawn its financial support.

Volunteer Joan Guy said: "There simply weren't enough volunteers doing it last year and no-one has stepped forward this year. It is a shame for the town but if the town wants it, the town will have to roll its sleeves up and get on with it.

"Saltburn has been especially good for volunteers for a number of years but now they all have volunteer fatigue."

Coun David Walsh, leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: "We get demands from across the borough for financial help and we do give some direct help but we must realise there are constraints.

"We are only too happy to give advice to groups wanting money from organisations such as the Lottery."

Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council has sponsored several events, which take place next week.

These include the Saltburn Victorian Society Afternoon Tea and Fashion Show in the community centre on Monday afternoon, a bowls tournament at Saltburn Bowls Club on Wednesday evening, an organist in Milton Street all week, and a Punch and Judy show at the station portico on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.