THE organiser of Abingdon’s largest fireworks display hopes this year’s cancellation will just be a one-off.

The Oxford Mail revealed on Tuesday that Julian Annells – organiser of the Abingdon Firework Display – was citing the problem of some people standing outside Dalton Barracks to enjoy the show for free as a major reason for cancelling this year’s event.

He also said the show had been hit by bills from the Performing Rights Society for playing music to accompany the fireworks, and a legal battle with a fairground operator.

But he hoped he would be able to put the display back on in 2010.

Mr Annells, 48, said: “I know a lot of people love the show, but I just couldn’t carry on.

“People would stand outside the park, watching for free. It’s bound to happen a bit, but when I’d hand out flyers people would say, ‘I’ll come but I won’t pay.’ “After last year’s event, someone from the Performing Rights Society said I had to pay for the music played during the show, and I had to take the fairground operator to court.

“I’m hopeful I can bring it back next year, but it would need people to commit to buying tickets beforehand.”

The show has run since 2002 and attracts thousands.

The cancellation was met with a mixed response in town.

Some people support Mr Annells, but others believing he should have lowered the ticket price in line with recession.

Tickets cost £5 (except for children under five, who were allowed in for three). Mr Annells said he spent £3,000 on fireworks.

Justin Evans, 38, from Abingdon, said: “The family and I love fireworks and we take the kids every year to watch them.

“It’s a shame the display has been cancelled because so many in the town go along every year.

“In the current climate the organiser should reduce prices, so more people would be willing to pay to go along.”

But John Killick, 77, of Bridge Street, said: “I have to admit I’m one of the people who watches it from afar without paying. However, I sympathise with the guy trying to make money.”

Barry Kirby, 66, Lovelace Close, added: “I can understand why he would cancel it, but it’s a shame as it’s one of the town’s big events and has become a real tradition.

“There’s no reason why people should expect it for free.”