SOUTHEND’s carnival fair has been cancelled after more than 80 years because it no longer raises enough money.

Rides have been set out in Chalkwell Park in the week leading up to Southend Carnival since the 1920s.

Organisers have now confirmed the fair will be scrapped.

It comes just three months after the committee decided to ditch its queen and court as the tradition is “old fashioned.”

Vice chairman Gemma Cartwright said: “Sadly this year we’re not holding the fair in Chalkwell Park.

“We have seen declines in the numbers of people attending, which has translated into a reduction in the amount of funds raised for the charities we support.

“We have worked with the fair community to try to improve the event, but this has not been as successful as we would have hoped.

“The event also needs the support of thousands of volunteer hours, so we have made the incredibly difficult decision not to host it this year.”

According to the carnival committee, the fair used to make between £15,000 and £20,000 for charity in its heyday- compared to just £800 last year.

Although there will be no fair, the carnival will continue- with other activities on offer this year including a beer festival, dog show and children’s fun day.

More than 80 floats have signed up to take part in the procession.

A worker from Westcliff Fish Bar, on London Road, who did not want to be named, said: “It will affect traders. Even if they charge entry, I think people will go.”

A spokesman for Chalkwell Residents Association said: “The fair has been a well-loved part of the local scene for many years, and has done so much to raise money for good causes.

“Despite that, perhaps it is time for a re-think. The traditional fair now competes with modern year-round attractions like Adventure Island, and compares unfavourably.”