TRADITIONAL music nights at the Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show (July 21-23) have been switched off for this year - because of huge cost of licensing regulations.

licensing fee is now £650 licensing fee, compared to £50 in the show's earlier years.

But it is all the other aspects of complying with modern day red tape, such as special marquees, new fencing around the entertainment area and a large force of security men which have pushed the overall sum up to £15,000.

"We were left with no choice. It would have just been a question of doing all the extra work and organising everything to pay £15,000 out to private companies - and that is not the idea of a charity event," said secretary Tony Greenham.

The Show has raised hundreds of thousands for good causes over the years. But rising costs have cut into the proceeds and there was nothing to spare for charity after last year's event.

The Friday and Saturday night mix of bands beer and barbecues had brought the public through the gate during the evenings, sometimes as late as 9pm, but it also provided entertainment for the exhibitors - many who stay overnight in their caravans or camper vans.

Now admissions to the showground will end at 6pm this year.

However, Mr Greenham was keen to stress that all the usual attractions plus arena entetainment will continue into the evenings