URGENT help is being called for to run a small, medieval fair in a north Suffolk village.Laurence and Marianne Johnson have organised the Knodishall Cold Fair since they revived the event in 1988.

URGENT help is being called for to run a small, medieval fair in a north Suffolk village.

Laurence and Marianne Johnson have organised the Knodishall Cold Fair since they revived the event in 1988.

But are now retiring and calling for more volunteers to take the mantel at a meeting on Tuesday, at 7.30pm at the Butcher's Arms in Knodishall.

Mrs Johnson said: “It would be nice if it didn't die because it's like an undiscovered gem - it has a really wonderful atmosphere and it's quite startling if you haven't been before.”

The couple are standing down after nearly 20 years of organising the event because they are relocating from Leiston to Halesworth.

At the last event, in December, the audience was treated to the performing skills of Coldfair Green Schoolchildren, music from Martin Newell and Foolhardy Folk's fire and juggling show.

Mr and Mrs Johnson started the fair, which is reminiscent of ones held in medieval times, after hearing how it had lapsed in the early 20th Century.

“We thought we would revive it and it's always been held within two miles of its original place,” said Mrs Johnson.

Over the years the event has seen appearances from Andy Barber, presenter of the comedy TV cookery show Get Stuffed!, 60s rock-star Arthur Brown and innovative guitarist Bert Jansch.

Anyone who thinks they can help in anyway is asked to attend Tuesday's meeting or to call 01728 832595 or 0845 330 6274.