A SUMMER festival’s organisers are “lost for words” after being forced to cancel the Hampshire event.

Scores of bands, including Toploader, had been booked to play at Gosfest but James Arthur and Scouting for Girls pulled out last week.

A provisional booking to hold the event in Stokes Bay fell through and after a number of setbacks organisers today conceded defeat and announced they would cancel the event, which was due to take place from July 30 to August 2.

A statement says: “We have fought to this point with everything thrown at us and explored every avenue to save the festival. Unfortunately a lot of events have left us with no choice but to withdraw.

“We would like to thank our sponsors, supporters, traders and sub-contractors, loyal fans, friends and families for their continued support of this event, we are lost for words to describe how making this difficult decision feels.

“We thank you all. We are Gosfest.”

Organisers say all ticket holders will be given refunds and those with questions are asked to email enquiries@gosfestuk.com.