Wolverhampton Steam rally gears up for move after funding row

The June event in West Park is paid for by the council but a row broke out after a parade of vehicles through the city was scrapped to cut costs. Organisers say they are waiting to speak to council chiefs to decide the show's future. It has already been decided that it will not take place at West Park, they say.

And they have warned that sites as far away as Cannock are being considered for next year – with funding coming solely from the organisers themselves.

One of the organisers Councillor Malcolm Gwinnett stepped down this year due to the cutbacks, but he said he was expecting to return next year.

Committee member John Wootton said Wolverhampton Racecourse had been suggested by the council. But organisers are concerned the site is not suitable.

Councillor Gwinnett, who has helped run the event for 20 years, revealed today that Cannock's Chasewater Country Park was an option along with Halfpenny Green Airport in Bobbington.

He said: "We are waiting to see what the council says but the idea is to turn the event into a steam and country fair and have the whole package, not keep cutting it back. If the council can't come to an agreement with everyone then we will look at our other options."

Wolverhampton City Council spokesman Gurdip Thandi said the authority's outdoor events manager Mark Blackstock had already spoken to members of the committee and added: "The intention is to hold an event next year. Details will be released later this year."

But Mr Wootton said: "It all hinges on talking with them and getting it sorted, so we have to wait and see. All options are on the table at the moment."

The axing of the much-loved parade through Wolverhampton sparked outrage earlier this year. Traditionally the vehicles drive along streets lined with onlookers before travelling to West Park.

At this year's rally, which attracts 40,000 people a year, an array of traction engines and motorcycles were on show along with vintage organs, steam engines and equipment from the past, as well as vintage and modern day funfairs.

As part of cost-cutting Wolverhampton City Council has also introduced charges for two other events for the first time this year. There was a £2 charge for adults and £1 for children at the City Show earlier this month while those heading to the country and music festival Wolvestock this weekend will need to pay £6 a day for adults, or £10 for a weekend ticket.

The authority spends £244,000 a year on subsidising outdoor events and wants to cut this to £179,000.