THOUSANDS of pounds of fundraising for charities could be lost after it was announced that an annual Teesdale race meeting looks certain to be cancelled.

The Whitsun Meet races have attracted thousands of competitors from around the region since they were launched in Barnard Castle in 1984.

During the years the ten-mile road race and the four-mile fun run have grown in popularity, raising thousands of pounds for charity in its 16-year history.

However, due to safety fears, the police have decided to stop the races because of the amount of runners and traffic on the roads at the same time.

The news has angered fundraisers who take part every year. And much of the blame has been aimed at a vintage steam rally, held at Streatlam Park, which was launched three years ago.

Peter Elliot, from Barnard Castle, who has taken part in the fun run since he lost his sight 12 years ago, blames the steam rally for the safety problems.

The 48-year-old has raised more than £12,000 for charity during the races, said: "The races have been steamrolled off the road by this rally, which has been around for five minutes.

"I think the rally is great and good for the town, but why can't they just stay off the roads for a few hours while the races are on. Thousands of pounds will be lost for local charities otherwise."

The steam rally attracts enthusiasts and owners from around the country, and a convoy of engines travel through Barnard Castle during the Meet weekend.

Rally organiser John Coulson, of Middleton-in-Teesdale, said: "We attract thousands of visitors every year.

"It's unfair to lay the blame on our doorstep, and although I'm sorry for the organisers of the races, I'm sure they can find an alternative and safer route away from the roads.