THE Great Dorset Steam Fair (GDSF) will not be going ahead next year after failing to find a buyer.

The fair was put up for sale a year ago but a spokesperson said discussions with interested buyers fell flat due to spiralling operational and infrastructure costs.

The event, which was cancelled in 2023 and 2024, usually takes place at a showground at Tarrant Hinton near Blandford Forum over the August bank holiday weekend.

READ MORE: 2024 Great Dorset Steam Fair cancelled – and event put up for sale

“Despite discussions with interested parties this past year, the escalation in operating and infrastructure costs remains the underlying issue in making the event financially unfeasible,” a spokesperson for the fair said.

“Unfortunately, this means that the Great Dorset Steam Fair will not be returning in 2025.”

The managing director of GDSF, Martin Oliver, expressed his disappointment the fair would not continue in 2025, but says the costs are rising to more than £5 million.

“It’s a great shame but we have been unable to find a way forward,” he said.

“With costs still increasing and incredibly high, the GDSF would be in excess of £5m to put on next year and remains unviable for us to run it again ourselves.

“We had hoped someone would be willing to take it on after being up for sale for over a year but sadly we have been unable to find a committed buyer willing to take the financial risk of staging this enormous event.”

He added: “I am very much aware that the GDSF is greatly missed and that this is not the news the tens of thousands of our supporters were hoping for or us as the organisers.

“We had sincerely hoped that we would be able to offer some positive news but sadly this isn’t to be.

“Nonetheless, please be assured that should circumstances change in the future we will of course let you know.

“As always, my sincere thanks go to everyone for your loyal and past support, it is very much appreciated.”