Oswestry’s Music Live summer festival, which attracts thousands of revellers will go ahead next year – but alcohol will be banned.

The day-long live extravaganza was in jeopardy after fears the event had grown so large it was posing security, licensing and health and safety risks.

But after talks with those involved in the event, Oswestry Town Council has decided the show must go on.

The council first organised Music Live as part of the millennium celebrations six years ago.

Town clerk David Preston said: “It has moved from an event on the bandstand in Cae Glas Park to one on a professional stage winning local and national acclaim. It is a professionally run event and admired by many other towns.”

In the past the council has allowed families and others enjoying the 10 hours of music, to take in wine and other alcohol to have with their picnics.

But, with several thousand people attending Music Live every year, there have been worries over binge drinking and underage boozing.

During a special meeting, Brian Johnson, of Oswestry Borough Council said to comply with new licensing laws the council would have to make noise management plans, advanced health and safety proposals and risk assessments.

Police and security advisors have said alcohol should only be allowed through licensed bars in the park.

“It was clear from the professional advice available that the council has no option but to make future Music Live events licensed bars only, with the prohibition of alcohol at the entrance gates,” Mr Johnson said.

“Soft drinks and water, if in sealed plastic containers, will be permitted.”

The date of next year’s event has not yet been decided.

But councillors say it should still be held on a Sunday, despite concern from the head teacher at Marches School that it affected the number of students turning up for school the following day.

By Sue Austin