Halesowen by the Sea axed as cash is diverted

A community event in Halesowen has been scrapped this year after cash was used for Jubilee and Olympic celebrations instead. Council bosses today confirmed Halesowen by the Sea has been dropped.

The event regularly attaracts hundreds of visitors to the town.

Bosses from Dudley Council said it had been axed as "resources have been focused" on Jubilee celebrations and the recent Olympic Torch relay.

Halesowen by the Sea traditionally takes place in August. Environment and culture boss Councillor Tracy Wood said: "We only have a limited budget from which to stage events.

"We are certainly not saying the Halesowen by the Sea event will not take place next year."

Chairman of Halesowen Chamber of Trade Steve Fitzpatrick said the loss of the event would be "a real blow" to the town but remained hopeful it would be resurrected next year.