Organisers of a popular Darlington music festival have announced the weekend event's cancellation.

Firthmoor Live 2023, which was due to take place at Firthmoor Community Centre on Saturday (July 22), has been cancelled due to "predicted bad weather" according to the event's organisers.

They said they plan to return with the festival next year and hope to come back "bigger and better."

They also announced they are planning for a Festive Firthmoor event.

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A spokesperson for Firthmoor Community Centre said: "We are sad to report that we have had to take the decision to cancel this years Firthmoor Live on Saturday due to the predicted bad weather.

"We will be back bigger and better next year and also planning on a Festive Firthmoor Event."

The annual event has been running since 2016 and has seen various themed events, including the Hawaiian Party and the Queen's 90th Birthday celebration. 

The festival often features music from live bands and fairground rides which have proven a hit with residents.

Residents reacted to the news of the event's cancellation with disappointment on social media.

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One said: "Damn, I was looking forward to it too. Oh well, never mind."

Another gutted resident said: "Me and my daughter wouldn't care about rain. We were looking forward to this!"

While another saddened resident said: "Absolutely gutted but totally understandable."