A CAMPAIGNING Ryedale councillor has urged fans of fairground rides to write to civic leaders in support of Malton Fair.

The move, by Councillor Stephen Preston, comes after a decision by Ryedale District Council community services and licensing committee to offer fairground operators a one-year contract instead of the usual five-year renewal.

The decision follows the possible redevelopment of Wentworth Street car park, where the fair is held.

Coun Preston has warned that the town could lose its traditional funfair forever if a long-term contract is not secured.

He has begun a "Save Our Fair" campaign by putting up posters across Malton and Norton urging people to write to the council to pledge their support for the fair, before the next committee meeting on Thursday, when he will ask councillors to reconsider.

"I need support from people who like the fair," said Coun Preston, who sits on both Malton Town Council and Ryedale District Council.

"I want them to write to the chairman of the community and services licensing committee expressing their views.

"If they have strong feelings about the fair and they don't want to lose it they should put pen to paper.

"I'm trying to drum up support for it. I've got a passion for fairground rides and attractions, I have had for a long, long time, and I don't want to lose Malton Fair."

The address to write to is Save Our Fair, The Chairman, Community Services and Licensing Committee, Ryedale House, Malton, YO17 7HH.

Updated: 10:53 Tuesday, April 13, 2004