ASHLEY Cross’ popular Party in the Park festival will be ringed by an imposing security fence for the first time in its 12 year history, it has been confirmed.

The previously free event, described as “a victim of its own success”, will also break with tradition and charge revellers an entry fee.

Organisers say Borough of Poole licensing chiefs forced their hands, insisting they fence the Lower Parkstone festival because of its growing popularity year-on-year.

Jane Jones, of Jane Jones PR & Events, told the Daily Echo: “The fact is we’ve been told by the council and the police that we either fence the festival or it will not go ahead.

“This is mandatory so we have to hire and erect a fence – and this costs money.

“It is a really busy location and basically we’ve been told we’re a victim of our own success.”

Huge crowds pack the village green every September for the Party in the Park, and July’s Grooves on the Green event, which is also subject to an entry fee this year.

Jane said: “We are totally with the council as it has increased in popularity over the years.

“Security measures have to be taken seriously regarding health and safety – after all, it is in our best interests.

“It was either this or no Party in the Park, which would have sincerely disappointed a lot of local people.”

This year’s Party in the Park chosen charity is Julia’s House children’s hospice.

There will be the usual eclectic mix of local foods, drink, craft stalls and a number of live bands and entertainment.

Tickets, costing £3 or £5 per couple will be available from Patrick’s, The Cow and Le Bateau.

Visit partyintheparks.co.uk for information.

• A Borough of Poole spokesman explained: “The Grooves on the Green and Party in the Park events have been very successful and the numbers attending have increased year on year.

“This increase in numbers has resulted in crime and disorder issues which were highlighted by Poole police following last year’s events.

“The Safety Advisory Group has discussed the problems with crowd management and crime and disorder and came to the view that the events should be enclosed and ticketed to prevent similar problems this year.

“The only application received so far has been for Grooves on the Green.”