THE Hessle Road pram race will not go ahead this year, it has been confirmed.
Earlier this year, community campaigners had vowed the popular event would go ahead.
But with no major sponsor and no committee to organise the race, the decision has been taken to scrap it.
Any chance of holding the event was dealt a fatal blow when the 20 prams used in the race went missing when the container holding them was removed.
But last year's organiser, Tracey Henry, insists the event will return next year.
She said: "Unfortunately, without a main sponsor, we don't have the funds to hold the event.
"We also need a committee, but with the economic situation, everyone is looking for funding and doesn't have time to organise the pram race.
"On top of all this, the prams have gone.
"They were stored in a container at Scrapstore in Dairycoates Avenue but they were removed and we don't know where they've gone."
Mrs Henry admits it is a big blow.
She said: "This is a massive disappointment.
"This is about Hessle Road's heritage and history.
"It brings people together form everywhere, whether it's schools or churches.
"It also provides a boost for businesses."
But Mrs Henry is determined the event will return next year.
She said: "It has been difficult to get people together as no one has any free time.
"But we will try to get a committee together and try to attract sponsorship.
"It maybe a case of trying to get a smaller amount from a number traders rather than trying to find one big sponsor.
"It may be a case we scale down the carnival, which could save a few thousand pounds."
The Pram Race Trust disbanded last year due to rising costs and other setbacks.
Ms Henry has already been talking to businesses and people in the community and had managed to secure £500 sponsorship from one taxi firm.
Donna Finn, chairman of Hessle Road Traders' Association, is willing to lend her support for next year.
She said: "It is very disappointing to learn the event won't happen this year.
"At our next traders' meeting, I will ask Tracey to come along and gain support.
"We don't have a lot of money but we could have put something towards it this year.
"I think we need to get more publicity for it.
"I'll certainly be happy to support it next year."
Mrs Finn believes the event is important for the street.
She said: "The race reminds us of the fishing community that put Hessle Road on the map.
"This event is an important way of remembering our heritage.
Last year's event raised about £1,000 from the bucket collections and donations.
