THE organisers of a Colchester music festival say the public must do their bit to make it a success.

Numbers were down at last year’s Cosmic Puffin festival but joint organiser Rusty Russell is hoping this year’s event will see a successful return.

Mr Russell said: “It’s a real mission to get the whole event on and it requires so much effort from all the volunteers.

“Last year we struggled because of when we had to hold it, with all the bank holidays coming at once, so to be honest we have to give it a real push this year.

“This is make or break, because if people don’t come out and support us, this could be the last year.”

The event, held at Mersea Youth Camp, in Rewsalls Lane, Mersea Island, takes place between May 4 and May 6.

There are four stages, playing host to 40 bands, as well as a healing area, children’s tent and open mic.

Tickets are available from the website, cosmicpuffin.org.uk, priced at £45 for adults, £15 for teenagers.

Children aged under 11 go free.