KNUTSFORD Royal May Day could face the axe unless funds are found to secure its future.

The dire warning comes as thousands lined the streets last year to welcome the colourful pageant back after being cancelled for two years due to the pandemic.

The historic event dates back to 1864 and is the only one of its kind in the country.

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Knutsford Guardian: Thousands lined the streets to welcome the return of the historic event for the first time in two yearsThousands lined the streets to welcome the return of the historic event for the first time in two years (Image: Newsquest)

The royal prefix was granted by the Prince and Princess of Wales on a visit to Tatton.

However, soaring costs could see it disappear.

Knutsford Guardian: Cheshire Wheelmen ride antique bikes along the quaint streets Cheshire Wheelmen ride antique bikes along the quaint streets (Image: Newsquest)

Steve Wilkinson, chairman of Knutsford Royal May Day committee for the past 15 years, said: “I have grave concerns for the future unless we get some serious sponsorship.

“It is now costing us £40,000 to put it on.

Knutsford Guardian: Hundreds of children dress up as characters for the traditional processionHundreds of children dress up as characters for the traditional procession (Image: Andy Easthope)

“Traffic management is the biggest thing we have to pay for. We have to close a lot of roads including the A50. This will cost £10,000 this year.

“We are doing our best with fundraising but we are struggling.”

Knutsford Guardian: Cowboys step out in styleCowboys step out in style (Image: Andy Easthope)

This year’s event, which has been moved to Saturday, May 13 to avoid clashing with the coronation, is safe.

“I am happy we can do this year’s,” said Steve.

Knutsford Guardian: Comic capers as children bring colourful characters to lifeComic capers as children bring colourful characters to life (Image: Andy Easthope)

“But, we are reaching the point where we need to find some financial stability.

“The town would lose a lot of kudos if it was to disappear. I do believe there would be an outcry.

“I would hate to let 700 kids down,”

Knutsford Guardian: Rapturous applause greeted enthusiasts riding antique bikes through the streetsRapturous applause greeted enthusiasts riding antique bikes through the streets (Image: Newsquest)

“I just love it. I have a passion for it.

“Seeing all the children, parents and grandparents smiling and having fun, that’s why we do it.”

Festival secretary Eileen Podmore, who has been involved in the event for 45 years, said: “It is emotional for Knutsford as their families have been taking part for generations.

Knutsford Guardian: Nannies with prams bring remind people of years gone byNannies with prams bring remind people of years gone by (Image: Newsquest)

“It is not a carnival, it is a big celebration that is very community based.

“Last year was the most wonderful for a long time.

“Everyone was so happy to see it back.

“Children were jumping around with joy.”

Knutsford Guardian: May queen Lily Newall May queen Lily Newall (Image: Andy Warman)

Steve added: “I would like to appeal to the businesses and people of Knutsford.

“If you want to see Royal May Day continue in its current form, somebody has got to try and help us out financially.

“Bars, pubs and restaurants must gain a lot of money from the sheer numbers of people coming into town.

“I could see the whole thing folding.”

Anyone wishing to help can email Eileen at ee.podmore@ntlworld.com or contact Knutsford Royal May Day on Facebook.