A POPULAR al fresco evening has been cancelled ‘due to unforeseen circumstances’.

King Street in Knutsford was set to be closed to traffic on Saturday, August 13, to allow diners to enjoy food and drink on the street.

However, some restaurants were forced to pull out at the last minute meaning that others can’t afford to meet the increased costs.

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A spokesman for Knutsford Town Council said: “A number of the businesses which were to participate were unable to take part, some due to staffing.

“This then raised costs which meant other businesses felt they couldn’t participate.”

The town council organises the road closure order, traffic management and security on behalf of all the businesses, who then share the cost of this.

Businesses arrange their own outdoor table and chair suppliers.

The Al fesco event on Friday, August 12 is still going ahead on Princess Street and Minshull Street.

Outdoor dining will be available from 6pm to 10.30pm.

The following venues are talking part – The Lost and Found, Copper 29, Project 53, Café on the Corner and Angel.

Road closures will be in place from 5.30pm to 11pm on Minshull Street and a partial closure of Princess Street outside Lost and Found as well as some restricted parking bays.

The food and drink festival is still going ahead as planned on Saturday, August 13.

This gastronomic event will see taster sessions and masterclasses at various venues across the town.

A speciality food and drink market will be held in St John’s Church and an outdoor street food market will be on Silk Mill Street.

Live musicians will perform from 12 noon to 7pm.

A full al fresco weekend is planned in September.