Police have launched an investigation into an alleged fraud linked to the Woodhall Spa 1940s Festival in Lincolnshire, a popular wartime-themed event that has been held annually since 2012. The organisers of the event, which attracts thousands of visitors and costs hundreds of thousands of pounds to stage, announced last weekend that it would not be taking place next July due to “rising operating costs”. They then revealed on social media that they had alerted police to a “possible criminal offence”.
In a statement on behalf of Lincolnshire Police, a spokesperson confirmed the investigation was at an early stage, stating: “Lincolnshire Police is investigating an allegation of fraud. As the enquiry is in its early stages it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage and we will keep the public updated as and when we can.” Similarly, the Woodhall Spa Committee issued a statement on social media confirming the investigation, with a spokesperson saying: “Our team is currently liaising with Lincolnshire Police after the committee alerted the authorities regarding a possible criminal offence. As this is an ongoing investigation, we can make no further comment at this time.”
The Woodhall Spa 1940s Festival has become a major contributor to the economy of the area, with the leader of East Lindsey District Council Craig Leyland expressing sadness at the news of the investigation: “People have put an awful lot of effort into this, the organisers, the businesses that take part and of course the visitors who come to enjoy what we have to offer in Woodhall Spa. This investigation, the news of it is just incredibly sad news.”
The free-to-attend festival features military reenactors, shows and flying displays and attracts hundreds of military vehicles and reenactors each year. The Woodhall Spa Committee has explained that the costs of keeping so many people safe and well-served have risen sharply in recent years and that they do not expect costs to reduce in future. They therefore felt it was time to bring the event to a close, with next year’s festival cancelled as a result of the investigation
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