Organisers of Ottery’s under-threat November 5 spectacular issue plea to residents and the thousands set to descend on the town in a fortnight’s time.

‘GIVE a quid and help save the Tar Barrels.’

That is the plea organisers of Ottery’s under-threat November 5 spectacular have to issued to residents and the thousands set to descend on the town in a fortnight’s time.

Driving forces hope a fundraising campaign will net vital cash in the face of rocketing insurance premium fuelled by a single compensation claim.

The Herald revealed how the 200-year-old tradition’s future hinges on the success of the claim, which has resulted in a �25,000 premium that could make this year’s event the last.

Ottery Carnival Committee members are fighting the claim, the result of a criminal act that sparked an explosion last November, but are preparing themselves for the worst.

“In the worst case scenario we will have to pay �25,000 for this year,” said chairman Graham Rowland, “This year’s event is 100per cent going ahead, but we’ll be left needing to find that money.”

“We’re planning to launch a campaign this year to encourage everyone who comes to give �1. If 20,000 people do that its obvious how it will help.

“All the barrel rollers and committee members will be out with collecting tins and buckets.”