“It is like any advertising that if you do not advertise you run the risk of not having people come to the show,” he said.

“We advertise in newspapers, we send out posters, we have our strategy, and part of that is having signs on the A697.

“I do think that the county council could be a little more considerate and understanding, after all it is part of their remit to encourage tourism.”

Jon Radgick, chairman of Glanton Parish Council, was so angry when he found out about the county’s email that he sent a letter to the authority condemning its actions.

In his letter, he claims that the council will have to prosecute around 100 exhibitors, most local residents, hundreds of show visitors and those who enjoy the activities on offer at the event, if it is to prosecute all who benefit from the signs.

Coun Radgick claimed the authority should not be creating problems for people “doing their bit for their community” through “red tape” and regulations.

He added: “There is a question of judgment about when you apply them and when you turn a blind eye. This is not a business, nobody is making any money out of this. It is a community event. There is no good reason for having done it at all.”

A county council spokeswoman said: “The rules around erecting signs on the public highway are laid down by Government legislation and the council must abide by them.

“That means that if anyone wants to erect a sign they must apply to the council first, and we will discuss their proposal with them. They must have the council’s consent before erecting any signs.

“We will advise them on the size of the sign, the lettering and where it is best to locate it.

“We must take into account the issue of cluttering the countryside with signage and the safety of drivers who may be distracted by signs.”