Bank blunder costs show's backers

Organisers of an annual Derbyshire show have apologised after a computer "error" left supporters out of pocket.

Up a quarter of the 800 Bakewell Show members or patrons may have been affected by the mistake, which left some overdrawn or with bank charges.

Instead of being charged between £22 and £45, banks withdrew thousands of pounds after a decimal point was incorrectly typed into a computer.

Show manager Janet Bailey said she was "embarrassed" by the blunder.

However, it was not immediately clear whether the error arose on the part of the bank or the show's organisers.

Tax threat

Ms Bailey said: "Some of the problems we were able to put right that day, thanks to the cooperation of some of the banks.

"But unfortunately, despite writing a first class letter that day to all the people affected, some did slip though the net."

Steps have been taken to make sure there is no repeat, and show organisers have offered to pay if people are left with bank charges.

The future of this year's show had previously been in doubt over fears it would be subject to a planned new tax.

But sports minister Richard Caborn later said a £5,000 minimum duty would not apply.

The potential tax was also seen a threat to other shows, with some having to close for good.

Organisers can now get ready for the 175th show in August this year. Previous events have attracted about 6,000 visitors over two days each summer.