LARGE-scale celebrations of a resort's Victorian history planned to take place this summer have been cancelled because of a lack of volunteers and funding from the local authority.

The Heritage celebrations at Saltburn, east Cleveland - dubbed Victorian Week - have become a popular event in the seaside town for all the family.

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

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And at the same time, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has withdrawn its financial support.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 wasn'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 have all got volunteer-fatigue."

Councillor 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 have got to realise there are constraints. We are only too happy to give advice to groups wanting money from organisations, such as the National Lottery."

l Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council has sponsored several events during the week, which starts on Monday. 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 on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.