A massive pub party set to take place in Medway next weekend has been cancelled because it was proving far too popular.

The Facebook Comes to Medway event was due to start at The Command House in Chatham on Saturday, July 12, but has been called off after about 3,000 people signed up on the social networking website to take part.

As this was more than the venue’s licence permits, organizers were left with no choice but to cancel the event following a meeting with local authorities.

Police and Medway Council are working with The Command House on plans for the event to happen at a later date.

A message on the Facebook group website said: “They [The Command House] are applying for an events licence which means they will be able to accommodate a larger number of people.

“The local authorities are in agreement with this and are also keen to see that this event takes place, but in a safe and secure manner.

“Everyone involved is very sorry for the short notice but no one foresaw this event proving as popular as it did and I hope that everyone will appreciate that safety has to come first. Please stick with us.”

A spokesman for Medway Council said: “We want people who come to Medway to have a good time, but act responsibly and feel safe.

“There were concerns that procedures were not in place to safeguard the huge numbers of people who had expressed an interest in attending the event on July 12.

“We are working with the police, venue holders and the promoter to ensure this event has the correct licence and facilities in place for a new date.”

Ch Insp Iain Mackenzie, from Medway Police, said: “Officers will be in the area in question on July 12, in an effort to ensure that there is adequate policing on offer to those who may not be aware that the evening has been cancelled.”