AFTER more than 15 years of operation - organisers of Llandudno Christmas have pulled the plug.

After many years of trading successfully, directors of the community interest company have said that due to ‘circumstances outside their control’ the Christmas Fayre incurred a loss 2019.

The fayre, which over the years has attracted thousands of visitors, has come underfire in recent years for its entry charge.

This year Barry Mortlock, chief executive Officer of Llandudno Christmas Fayre Community Interest Co, stressed that the directors felt they had ‘no choice’ but to maintain the £4.50 entry fee as ‘very little profits were made in 2018.’

In a statement, directors of the Llandudno Christmas Fayre Community Interest Co said: “The directors explored a number of avenues and considered a number of options to try to make the Fayre a sustainable event.

"No additional sources of funding or support were identified and, after careful consideration, the directors concluded that in the current climate no business model was available that would create sufficient certainty that future events could cover their costs.

“In the light of this, the directors sought professional advice on how to wind the company up, keeping costs to a minimum and ensuring a maximum return for creditors.

"Based on this advice, the company’s funds are being distributed pro rata to all of its creditors (which will give creditors 78 pence in the pound) and, in due course, the company will be dissolved.”

The popular fayre has been running in Llandudno for 16 years and has become a key event in Llandudno’s winter calendar, attracting many visitors to the town and providing a unique festive experience for both locals and visitors alike.

In 2018, ticket prices increased from £2.50 to £4.50.

In 2017, for the first time, visitors were asked to pay £2.50 to enter.

The directors have thanked all those who has been involved in the fayre over the last 15 years.

“In particular the many volunteers who have supported the fayre, the stallholders and contractors," the statement added.

“Many have worked with the fayre since its inception. We’d like to thank the local schools and organisations that have provided the entertainment at the event, Mostyn Estates and the other sponsors who have provided financial support over the years.

“It is with considerable sadness therefore that the decision to cease trading was taken.”