The introduction of an entrance fee at this year's Maldon Mud Race outraged some people.

For the first time, spectators were charged £1 to come into the Promenade Park and watch the race on Sunday.

Many people were angry about having to pay and some had not brought the cash required, claiming they had not been informed about the new charge.

Organiser of the event Bill Gellar said: "The admission fee was a new thing in order to cover expenses because we have to hire staff to meet safety rules. It is also an opportunity to pick up a few extra pounds for the charities."

One spectator said: "My family and I have been going to the mud race since we moved to Maldon five years ago. We were very surprised to find we had to pay £1 a head this year.

"We had not read of a charge being made, and had not seen any posters on display. Most people who attend the event give donations in the buckets voluntarily for the charities and that is good and proper."

Brian Olley, chairman of the mud race committee, said more than 300 posters were put up around the town informing people that there would be an entry fee.

He said "Everything we make will go to the nominated charities and we saw it as an opportunity to help these charities by making more money.

"I don't think it was unreasonable. A pound is a nominal amount."

Mr Gellar added that a charge may not be made at next year's event.

Published Thursday, January 2, 2003

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