Balloon festival freezing prices

The festival attracts large crowds but has never made a profit

Admission charges for a loss-making annual balloon festival later this year are to be held at the 2007 level.

The programme for Northampton's 2008 Balloon Festival includes a circus and children's farm back by popular demand, cabinet member Brendan Glynane said.

The event will also feature a sports and activities zone for the first time, with coaching from professionals.

"Last year 30,000 paying adults came to the event over the three days despite the terrible weather," Mr Glynane said.

In December last year the council insisted that organisers formulated a five-year plan to make the event self-financing after several years of losses.

Mr Glynane continued: "The people of Northampton do value this event and believe it is well worth a £4 admission charge.

"We have decided to keep the charge at the same level as last year even though other far smaller events in the area charge twice as much for adults.

"The Balloon Festival will once again be free for children under 16.

"We are bringing back the circus and farm from last year because of their overwhelming popularity with families."

The event will take place from Friday 15 to Sunday 17 August.