The twice yearly event is a massive boon to the tourism industry with pubs and shops seeing an increase in revenue and accommodation at a premium, with rooms snapped up months in advance.

Tickets are almost sold out for two concerts at Whitby Pavilion on Saturday and Sunday with just a few remaining at the Tourist Information Centre.

However the recent postal strikes has left many without tickets with only days to go before the event is due to begin.

Organisers Topmum say that contingency plans are in place but admit it has not helped preparations.

“We have been badly affected by the postal strike,” said Sam Hoyle.

“We sent tickets out weeks ago and some of them haven't arrived. We are putting plans in place to sort it out but it will end up costing us more money.”

Goth forums and message boards have been filled with concerned people trying to find out where their tickets, many of which ordered months in advance, are.

“Other than the postal strike it looks all set to be a really great event this year,” he added.

The line ups for the concerts have been confirmed Pro-Jekt, Voices of Masada and Violets headlining and Sins of the Flesh flying in from Japan to play at the event.

A few new events taking place for the first time this year include an extension to the gothic trading at Whitby Leisure Centre.

In previous years the popular collection of goth stalls and traders has been open on Friday and Saturday but this year it will be open on Sunday for the first time.

The Met will host a battle of the bands on the Friday night when Dyonisis, Novus:UK and 13Tombs will attempt to win a slot on next October's main stage at the Pavilion.

The Whitby Gazette has reported how at this year’s event money will be raised for a memorial bench on the West Cliff for murdered goth Sophie Lancaster.

Black ribbons will sold at the Pavilion and a collection will be taken at The Met at Sexy Sunday to raise the £1,600 needed.

l Watch out for our great Goth Weekend section on our website, www.whitbygazette.co.uk

It will feature videos, picture galleries, slide shows and all the latest news and views about the event.

And don’t miss our great coverage after the event in next Tuesday and Friday’s Whitby Gazettes. Order your copy with the special form in this Friday’s Gazette.