THE future of an organisation set up in honour of one of the region's greatest heroes is in serious jeopardy.

The Captain Cook Association, set up 20 years ago to draw tourists to the early haunts of the legendary navigator and explorer, could be forced to close, because of doubts over its funding.

Possible European Union cuts have left a question mark hanging over the association and could pose a threat to the annual Captain Cook Festival.

Civic leaders say they are concerned about the potential loss of an influential tourism organisation, with links across Hambleton, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, Whitby and Scarborough.

Hambleton District Council leader June Imeson, who is on the association committee, said: "It would be a great shame if we lose that money. It is all about money - we need it for brochures, for advertising, for signs and everything else.

"I don't know whether the district and borough councils will be inclined to dig deeper into their pockets for us. It would be very, very sad if it had to close on account of finance because it is good for the economy and brings in the tourists."

Councillor Imeson said no definite figures on the amount needed to maintain the association had been discussed, but the matter is due to be raised at a future meeting.

Dozens of monuments and museums have been created throughout the region to pay tribute to the discoverer of Australia and Antarctica.

Reminders of the achievements of Captain Cook, who was born in Marton-in-Cleveland, in 1728, can be found in Great Ayton, where he was educated, and along the coast at Staithes and Whitby, where he learnt his seafaring skills.

A series of events to mark the 272nd anniversary of his birth were held in October as part of the Captain Cook Festival, but the latest development could hit the celebrations.

Association chairman Dorothy Clegg said cash cuts would leave the festival at risk and closing the group would restrict the promotion of Cook Country