One of the Brighton Fringe Festival's major venues has announced it will not return next year.

The eye-catching Udderbelly, a giant upside-down purple cow, was based at the Old Steine for the past two years.

But organisers of the venue, which has fulfilled a two-year contract, said it was not viable because audience numbers were too low on weekdays.

However, the Parlure Spiegeltent will return to Brighton following its debut at The Green at St Peter's Church, York Place, earlier this year.

This year was the first year both venues had operated at the same time. But Fringe organisers denied having two big venues in close proximity was the problem and said they intend to find a new venue to fill the space left by the Udderbelly.

Udderbelly director Ed Bartlam said: "We were disappointed not to return because we have loved being in Brighton. But we haven't been able to make it work financially.

"Last year we had a very good programme of shows, such as the Tom Tom Club, but without substantial sponsorship or additional funding it is difficult to make the figures add up.

"We can't afford to take the risk on it again. The Brighton Fringe Festival has the potential to be one of the UK's foremost arts events but it needs to work hard at building its audience and marketing itself to the wider UK arts audience.

"We would urge the Fringe organisers to concentrate on this vital audience growth ahead of any growth in the number of shows or venues at the Fringe."

Fringe manager Nick Stockman said: "We are disappointed the Udderbelly is not returning but we can only work with those people who feel they can work with us.

"We are positive about next year and I am delighted that the Parlure Spiegeltent is returning and excited about their plans for 2009."

He said the organisers of the Fringe Festival were planning initiatives to encourage people to buy weekday tickets, with promotions including two-for-one tickets.

Mr Stockman said: "We are not a festival that runs during holiday time so people are working during the week, which is a challenge for all promoters.

"It is something we are aware of and we are working hard to address the issue."

Jessica Magill, project manager for the Parlure Spiegeltent, said: "We re excited to be coming back. "We appreciated the support from Brighton last year and are going to build on that in 2009."

Fringe 2009 runs from May 2 to May 25. Performers and promoters wanting to register should go to www.brightonfestivalfringe.org.uk.

Those who sign up before December 31 will benefit from an early bird discount.