ONE of the biggest events in the civic calendar has been scrapped for 2019, the organisers of Maldon Carnival have confirmed.

Organisers of the event have confirmed it will not take place this year due to a lack of volunteers.

It means both the procession and carnival week have been axed.

It is the first time in 68 years a carnival procession has not passed through the town and the first time in the carnival’s history there has not been a baby show.

Maldon Carnival day had been due to be held on Saturday, August 3, with events held throughout the week.

It is also the second time in recent years the event has been under threat.

In a post on Facebook the organisers said: "It is with deep regret and much sadness that we have to announce that the 2019 Maldon Carnival will not be happening this year, this is due to a lack of volunteers despite numerous requests both on social media and local press.

"Unfortunately we had little choice but to cancel both the procession and Carnival week."

In 2017 the carnival committee cancelled the event due to a lack of support before dozens of volunteers stepped in to save it.

Two years ago no members of the public attended a meeting held with the aim of securing its future.

A number of key committee members had also stepped down from their roles, leaving the carnival unable to function leaving the carnival unable to function.