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UNLESS ticket sales pick up in the next two weeks, Faenol Festival organisers may have to reconsider their plans. The festival, established 10 years ago by opera superstar Bryn Terfel, is being staged next month after a year's break. The four-day event features Irish boy band Westlife, Mexican tenor Rolando Villazon, X-Factor runner-up Rhydian and pub landlord Al Murray. But ticket sales are "significantly lower" than at the same stage two years ago and Bryn yesterday warned "some elements may be changed" if the situation doesn't improve. Terfel said: "The show must go on but we need people to show their commitment and buy tickets sooner rather than later. People often say the Faenol Festival is a crazy idea - the world coming to a field near Caernarfon. But it's always worked, always been amazing. "I have to admit however, these challenging economic times are having an impact upon us and we've seen a significant slowdown in ticket sales following the Government's Budget announcement. We are not alone. Our situation is matched by other events across the UK. "We have a great line-up and our audience have been enthusiastic and supportive over the past 10 years. "I urge anyone who wants to attend Faenol Festival this year to buy tickets within the next 10 days." Terfel, who would not say how the plans might alter, added: "We have to have a plan B but we hope we don't need to implement it." Sir David Henshaw, chairman of the Faenol Trust said: This festival usually provides injection of pounds 3m into the local economy. However, we have to be financially responsible. While public money helps to support the festival, essentially it is income from ticket sales that sustains it." Festival organisers revealed that they have been forced to change the event's running order. The Battle of Britain afternoon performance starring Hayley Westenra and Rhydian will be moved from Bank Holiday Monday to Saturday 12.30pm. "We are very sorry for any inconvenience this causes," a spokeswoman said. CAPTION(S): POOR SALES: Bryn Terfel buy tickets sooner rather than
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