THE Oxford Mail takes no pleasure in reporting a fresh blow to the Cowley Road Carnival. The Arts Council has turned down £50,000 for the annual event, which usually attracts about 30,000 people.

That could amount to almost a third of the money needed for the carnival to run. Organisers are now being forced to go cap in hand to local businesses.

Nobody seems to know what the shape the event will take in July – we hope it takes place, full stop.

The Arts Council said organisers were unable to let them know about all the artists taking part – therefore it couldn’t help with money.

We are huge backers of the carnival and want to see it grow and grow. It’s already one of the best events of its kind in the country.

Let’s hope the organisers find a way around this problem and fast!