but Sunday's performance by The Nofit State Circus ensured the weekend wasn't a total washout.

The six Welsh street performers drew a crowd of 3-400 people at their rearranged Sunday afternoon show.

Organiser Toppy Cowen said: "We thought that was fabulous considering there wasn't much notice. We only had the radio and a few of us asking people to stop by.'' But he said burdensome red tape meant the Festival would not be rescheduled.

He said: "It took months to put this together. There really is too much to do. With the unending requirements in staging the event in Flatts at a later date the committee has decided to shelve the festival this year.'' He said it was not an easy decision to ax the event but necessary as forecasters predicted continuing rain with possible thunder showers.

"By four p.m. we realised we had made a wise decision.

"While some of the events could have taken place under tenting there was a fear that electronic equipment might be damaged and the safety factor for the musicians and other performers was obviously more important than taking dangerous risks.

"The challenge to place the entire village street under canvas for the exhibitors was far beyond our financial resources. Exhibitors will have their entry fee returned in due course.

"On reflection the committee thought another covered location should have been reserved but this is always difficult at the last minute.

"Suggestions came up such as school auditoriums and the airport hangers which were used during the days of the US Navy where thousands attended their air shows.''