BROMYARD Gala has found a new home – just a quarter of a mile from its former venue.

Organisers announced in July that it was looking to move after 15 years at Bircheyfields.

And just as it looked like the door may be closing on 46 years of history, chairman Stephen Matthews revealed the gala will now be run from nearby Burgess Farm in Avenbury.

Mr Matthews, who owns Fromes Hill Services with his father, Roy, said: “It’s great we have found somewhere as it was getting desperately last minute as to whether we would cancel next year’s event. There is as much room on the new site, as there are no trees, so we will be able to fit in all the usual gala entertainment and maybe some extras.

“We’ve obtained the lease for the new site for the next three years at least, and want to say a big thank you to the Turner family for letting us use their land.”

Mr Matthews, aged 53, has been involved with the gala since he was 14, and says the gala “has changed a lot”.

“It has grown year on year and we really didn’t want to lose it.”

Bromyard town councillor Tony Burt said: “Bromyard Gala is a centrepiece of our year, along with Nozstock, Bromyard Folk Festival and the Christmas lights.

“It represents the tradition that is still alive in our town and its continuation is wonderful news.”

Next year’s gala, featuring prize-winning Hereford cattle and vintage steam engines, will be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 5-6.