Anstruther Harbour Festival has been saved after an appeal for volunteers brought more people on board.
There were fears the event might have to be cancelled after the committee said it was suffering “burn-out” because of the amount of work involved in organising the packed programme.
It has been confirmed next year’s festival will go ahead on the weekend of July 28 and 29.
Festival secretary Gail Sorley said: “New members – local residents all – have joined the committee, and they bring new energy, fresh ideas, and the event help and support that the committee had sought.”
The committee, who are mostly over the age of 60, sent out an SOS for new members before a meeting, which was held last month, to discuss the future of the festival.
“Happily, there is now a better range of ages, interests and abilities of members on the committee, and anybody wishing to join the committee or help in any way in the months ahead is welcomed to do so,” continued Ms Sorley.
The reinvigorated committee is exploring new ideas to widen the festival’s appeal.
Ms Sorley said: “More local entertainers, food producers and craftspeople will be sought to make the Anstruther Harbour Festival a truly East Neuk event celebrating the fishing, sea-faring way of life and history of the area.”
Next year’s event will preserve enduring festival traditions including the Anstruther Muster, an annual gathering of visiting boats, and the classic boat rally with its historic yachts and fishing vessels.
As usual, there will be two marquees along the shore front during the weekend. One will be devoted to music, entertainment, kids’ activities and the Sunday morning worship service, which has become a popular feature of the festival.
The other marquee will have tables for food vendors to sell fresh, locally-made produce and host cooking demonstrations.
In addition, the festival will attract an eclectic mix of craftspeople who will be selling jewellery, artwork, knitted goods, beachcraft, photowork, ceramics, decorative home pieces and more.
Anyone interested in participating in the festival, or who would like to volunteer, can contact the committee on Ansteractivities@aol.com.
