An annual West Sussex flower show has been cancelled for the first time since the Second World War after travellers moved on to the field where it is staged.

The group moved on to Mackley's Field in Small Dole, near Henfield, on Friday, a week before the highlight of the village calendar.

Organisers of Small Dole Horticultural Society - scheduled for next Saturday - said the travellers would not leave so they had no choice but to cancel the show.

Chairman Peter Gretton said: "It is a big blow, honestly. Only the war has stopped it before but they have stopped it now."

Organisers usually spend the final few days putting up marquees and getting the site ready for the show, which attracts more than 100 gardeners.

Mr Gretton said: "It is hard work all year through. People get their vegetables ready to bring, but it is all gone. We are very, very disappointed."

The travellers unhinged locked gates to get into the field but police say they can't move them on because they did not cause any damage Society member Geoff Simpson said: "We can't relocate at with only a week to go. It is quite a large show and we would have to find a large site for it.

"It is a great shame because we have never lost one, even because of the weather."