A family wrestling show was cancelled amid claims the organisers were made to “jump through hoops” to get it licensed.
Falling Starr Wrestling says it pulled the plug on this Saturday’s scheduled event at St Mary and St Nicolas Hall in Spalding because South Holland District Council’s expectations – including the employment of two doormen – made it financially unviable.
The firm says the council also wanted a GP present and assurances of protection for the building’s windows.
After a second cancellation at the venue this year over licensing issues, Falling Starr Wrestling claims it has never had any similar issues in other towns during its five-year history and might not now return to Spalding.
A spokesman said: “To meet their demands, we would be massively over budget which made running the show unfeasible.
“We also felt that we were being unfairly scrutinised as I’m sure that no other entertainment group would have to employ bouncers for a family-friendly event in what is essentially a church hall.
“I think this will probably be the last time we try to hold an event in Spalding as, after our first two successful shows, our reputation in the town has been tarnished by these cancellations.”
The firm said it had not taken the decision lightly as ticket sales were healthy, but it was being made to “jump through hoops and adhere to unrealistic demands”.
Spalding father and son Nick and Andrew Sculthorpe had booked £10 tickets to go.
Nick said: “We were disappointed it was cancelled as we’ve been before and enjoyed it.
“It’s a shame – we need more entertainment in Spalding as we go to Skegness a lot to get ours.”
The council’s portfolio holder for public protection, Coun Malcolm Chandler, said: “Having raised no objections to the event and agreed a temporary event notice for it to be held, we are surprised to learn that it has been cancelled.
“As a council we are keen to see events which attract visitors to the district taking place and we also have a duty to ensure public safety is considered.
“We worked closely with organisers and made standard safety recommendations for an event of this nature. The organisers agreed to all of these and were happy to provide two licensed door staff.”
