A question mark hangs over the future of a seafront music festival after promoters pulled out in a row with the pier owner.

Organisers announced yesterday that they would not be staging Rox 2002 on Bognor promenade. Last year's festival attracted 60,000 people.

But they insist the free music and arts event, which was due to take place from August 2 to 4, will still take place and are hunting for a new venue.

The move follows a row over plans to expand this year's event and the location of one of the stages.

The owner of Bognor Pier had threatened to ban the Bognor Birdman rally from the pier unless the stage was moved.

Rox organiser Rob Cameron said its future had been put in jeopardy because of concerns the event had become too big.

Mr Cameron said: "Despite being a huge boost for the local economy and tourist industry, the Rox organisers have recognised their responsibility with positive action.

"The organisation has withdrawn its application to hold the event directly on the promenade and the surrounding areas."

Pier manager Angie Edlin said: "We're sad they have had to withdraw their application. But Rox was becoming too big."

The event was due to be discussed by Arun District Council's ruling Cabinet yesterday afternoon but after the news the council instead issued a statement.

Deputy leader Norman Dingemans said: "The council does have to take very seriously the view from pier owner John Ayres that he would refuse to allow the pier to be used for the Birdman Rally unless compromises were made to limit any negative impacts of the Rox 2002 event on seafront trade.

"Both Rox 2002 and the Birdman Rally are key tourism events for the district in general and for Bognor in particular and the council would wish to see them both in 2002."

Bognor Mayor Roger Nash told cabinet members Bognor Town Council would try to organise an alternative event.

He said: "It will not be the same as Rox but we would hope to incorporate some of its best features."

He added: "I hope that Rox will come back to Bognor Regis in 2003."

Bognor town councillors have called an emergency meeting next Wednesday.