Public mourn loss of Merefest

On the Merefest page on Facebook scores of supporters voiced their thanks for what they said was an amazing festival.

Cathy Andrew part of the Fizzgigs community arts group that was heavily involved each year wrote: So so sad, we loved Merefest, personally and I know all of Fizzgigs were very passionate about it, we were inspired. Thanks you so much for bringing Merefest to Ellesmere, best of luck going forward and hope we will get to work together on another project in the future.

Other comments included Wendy Salter: So sad that this can’t continue. Without a large amount of sponsorship funds, it’s not surprising that it had to fold. Each year was amazing and heartwarming - lifting people's spirits in so many ways. Thanks for the memories.

Lianne Farrow: This is incredibly disappointing and a real shame that something so enjoyable has to stop! It was one of the best events I have been to in Shropshire.

Kate Westgate: Such a shame that folks unwilling to part with £3 or similar and insisting on their right to walk through meant funds raised were insufficient to continue. It was a super, special event that Ellesmere could be proud of aAnd the magic woven by fizzgigs in the woods in the evening will stay with many for years to come.

Tammy Griffiths: What a shame. We have come to every one and they were fantastic.

Lisa Scattergood: Sad to hear that - we've enjoyed attending, Shropshire Falconry.

Bekki Long: It was amazing the couple of times we came, well done for putting something together that was so awesome. My fove year old still talks about last year's one. It will be missed.

Catriona Mcallister-Rees This really is so very sad. I really loved Merefest and thought it was such a special event. I really can't believe it's not going to be on this year. It's so crazy because it is just what Ellesmere needed. I was really looking forward to it. Is it because of people not wanting to pay, is that actually what it came down to?

Sarah Carpenter: Really sad to read this. We attended for the first time last year with our two young boys and were utterly blown away by the whole amazing event. Such a shame that it won’t be happening this year but very grateful we got to experience and enjoy it last year. It was an absolute credit to all those involved. Thank you for the memories

Some supporters asked if the event could be revived including, Paul Goulbourne: A great loss to Ellesmere, is there no way it can be saved?

Vicki Reed: Such a shame, can it not tie in with carnival weekend at all and make it a two day event in Ellesmere? This year's was amazing and the kids loved it.

Nicky Edwards: That's such a shame - love Merefest - one of the best days of year! Thank you for all your hard work and here's hoping there's a way to get it back for 2019.