A £25,000 funding shortfall has cast doubt over the future of this year's Stroud Fringe Festival.

Organisers say two of their big business sponsors have put their funding on hold due to economic uncertainty following the EU referendum result.

They are now appealing for help from businesses and the people of Stroud to save the 20th anniversary festival scheduled for the August Bank Holiday weekend.

"Two of our sponsors have pulled out of funding because of concerns about their financial security," said Julie Howe, an organiser of the festival.

"They have told us it is because they are uncertain of their financial security after the referendum.

"It costs between around £45,000 to run the festival so we now have a potential shortfall of between £20,000 and £25,000.

"We are hoping the good people of Stroud will be able to help us.

"We want to keep it a free event. If people who came last year could donate just a small amount it would be lovely."

Thousands of revellers descended on Stroud for the re-launch of the free fringe festival last year, with more than 300 performers taking part across six stages in the town.

The volunteer run music and arts festival includes street entertainment, parades and creative children's workshops.

"We had great feedback last year and were really proud to help organise a fantastic festival," said organiser Lotte Lyster.

"We were hoping to release details this week but have had to put it on hold now.

"We were really shocked at how quickly the impact of the referendum has been felt.

"The reality is that the arts sector will be hit hard in the short term

"Hopefully we will be able to raise enough in the next few weeks, we are remaining optimistic and are not panicking."

Green energy company Ecotricity has offered to support the festival with a donation since organisers launched an appeal.

If you can help visit stroudfringe.co.uk.