A RED tape wrangle has prompted the cancellation of one of the region's oldest and most popular summer attractions.

More than 70,000 people visited last year's Durham County Show - but organisers say the two-day agricultural event has become a victim of its own success.

The show was due to be held at Herrington Country Park, on the outskirts of Sunderland, on July 14 and 15, but has been cancelled because Northumbria Police want £13,297 for keeping order.

The show has fallen victim to its own success because the size of crowds, 30,000 to 70,000, mean it is now deemed a profit-making event under Home Office regulations.

The event, run by the Durham County Agricultural Society, features horse and livestock events and has many other attractions.

Show secretary of 17 years, Christine Duke, said: "We have tried to find a way, but cannot overcome the huge financial obstacle unexpectedly put in front of us, so we have had to cancel this year's show, which will be a huge disappointment to everyone.

"All we can do is apologise to our loyal audience, particularly traders, competitors and the children, who will miss out on the usual combination of spectacular displays, countryside events and competitions plus music and entertainment, which have all helped the event become such a huge favourite.

"We will be looking at ways and means of resurrecting the show next year and we would be delighted to hear from anyone who may be able to assist us in this."

A Northumbria Police spokesman said the force signed up last year to a national charging policy for policing events laid down by the Association of Chief Police Officers.

"There are some events, including agricultural shows, which are charged full costs for policing," said the spokesman.

"To police this event for two days would cost £13,297. This is for an inspector, a sergeant and ten PCs for each day."

The show was established in 1841 and more than 100 have been held.

In 1999, organisers were told they had to move from their traditional home at Lambton Park and the following year, the show was held on the Northern Area Playing Fields, in Washington.

In 2001, it was cancelled because of foot-and-mouth disease and it moved to Herrington Park in 2002.