AN annual event that attracts thousands of people to Sticklepath will not take place this year.

This year's Sticklepath ­Fireshow, which would have been the 30th anniversary of the event, has been cancelled following a number of difficulties over the year — but there are hopes it will be back with a bang in 2014.

The main issue for organisers this year has been collecting wood that can be used to build the show's set and stage. Wood donations for the event, normally waste timber from the building industry, have dropped dramatically over recent years, following the economic downturn. The wood used on the stage has to be good quality timber, as the fireshow is a public event.

Finding people who have the time to collect and deliver wood and finding suitable transport for donations has also proved difficult.

The future of the fireshow was in jeopardy earlier this year after a disappointing turnout of members and supporters at March's fireshow general meeting. Following an appeal for more volunteers, the committee found two new members. With several key committee members planning to step down this year, the number of committee members and event volunteers could be a long-running issue for the fireshow, but organisers are optimistic the show could make a return in 2014.

Daisy Lewis, of the fireshow committee, said: 'It is hoped that this "fallow" year can be used to take stock, during which the current core team can handover to a brand new committee, as some key members will be stepping down at the next annual general meeting. A new team can be a source of new ideas for how the charity is run in 2014.

'To this end please keep your eyes open for further information over the winter so that we can all decide together how best to ensure that the fireshow returns with all its usual gusto in 2014.

'Outgoing committee members will of course be on hand next year to advise, guide and help any new members in their efforts where needed.'

But it has not all been doom and gloom in 2013 — a new generation are already learning the skills they would need for future fireshows. A week of arts and craft workshops culminating in a catwalk show and exhibition took place in August for youngsters in the area.

The event takes place each year to promote creativity and working together, and was supported by a grant from South Tawton Parish Council.

Organisers expressed thanks to all the children and volunteers who contributed to the event's success, and to the parish council for its support.

If you would like to get involved in bringing back the fireshow in 2014, visit http://www.sticklepathfireshow.co.uk">www.sticklepathfireshow.co.uk or e-mail [email protected]">[email protected]