Organisers of a car show in Maldon have announced that the popular attraction has been cancelled permanently.

The Maldon Motor Show had been held annually at Promenade Park since 2012, except for its cancellation last year due to the pandemic, and featured vintage, classic and sports cars alongside military and commercial vehicles, retro cars and motorbikes.

But organisers have been forced to permanently cancel the show after struggling to find the resources to hold it next year, while Maldon District Council was unable to provide the additional staff requested.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Maldon Motor Show said: "It is with great regret that I have to inform you that the Maldon Motor Show has been cancelled permanently.

"It is a sad day for all of us with the loss of one of our favourite shows.

"A number of reasons have contributed to this decision, including the lack of resources from Maldon District Council – not helped by Covid-19 - making it impossible to continue with the show.

"I would like to thank Maldon District Council, all the sponsors, volunteers, entertainers, traders and classic car owners who have supported this event over the years.

"It was all of you who made it such a success year on year.

"I will miss the buzz and excitement of the crowds generated by this amazing show in the wonderful riverside location of Promenade Park.

"I look forward to meeting you all at classic car shows in the future and wish everyone happy and safe motoring in 2022."

Del Boy, Mr Bean's cars and the flying car from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang are among the attractions to have featured at the show, which is eagerly anticipated each year in the town and attracts residents from across the district.

A spokesperson for Maldon District Council said: "We are proud to have supported a number of events in the district, including the annual motor show which we know is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

"We understand the motor show organisers have faced some challenges in resourcing the event for 2022, and we have been approached by the organisers to explore the possibility of the council providing additional resources.

"Unfortunately, the very high level of additional staff requested, which were in addition to those that would have been supporting the event, was not something we would have been able to provide.

"However, we understand that the organisers may be considering some alternative events."