Let's start with the positive stuff – the fireworks were superb – absolutely stunning! So were the Red Arrows and the Typhoon (Eurofighter). All brilliant. So was the weather – rain was predicted all week, but it started 10 minutes after the fireworks ended - superb timing!

But there is, let's face it, a massive black mark over Airbourne this year. I think it's fair to say that charging for Airbourne has been very close to a disaster. And it was entirely predictable.

The Director for Tourism said on TV that the crowds were similar in numbers overall, but lower in the main central areas. Translation: Hardly anyone paid to see the show and everyone watched it from areas where there was no charge. Also note that council officers are being put up for interview, rather than councillors, this often happens when there's bad news.

I think heads should roll for the decision to charge. Some council officers have wanted to charge for years, but councillors have always resisted; until this year with disastrous consequences.

I think it's likely that the council will be able to claim they've broken even for the show this year – but it will be interesting to look at how they've managed to spin that. Look out for the use of contingency budgets to cover the shortfall. This will mean two things; 1, charging didn't work, and 2, they had money in reserve they could have used anyway.

As with all things on the council, the buck stops with the politicians. It will be interesting to see how Cllr Tutt, the council leader, reacts to this major test of his leadership. Will he shuffle his cabinet and give someone else the tourism brief? Will he take the rap himself? Will he shuffle the officers' responsibilities?

One thing he could do is offer an apology to the people of Eastbourne for charging this year and commit straight away not to charge next year. That is probably his best way forward at the moment. A little humility, and show he's learnt a lesson. If he does that, I will be the first to congratulate him.

I didn't go near the pay zone this year – for the first time ever (I normally almost move in for the four days!). I heard that there were more empty deckchairs on the beach than people on the Thursday and Friday! At least they were lucky with the weather.

Of course the people that really pay for Airbourne, in addition to council tax payers, are the traders. Many of them pay hundreds, and even thousands of pounds for a pitch to sell their wares. Some people always complain about the quality of these areas – but the fact is it's always very busy, and the show couldn't happen without them.

I have been talking to a few of these traders – and many of them have said it's been a disaster, with some of them taking just 10% of what they normally would take.

Interestingly, and here's a crumb of comfort for the council, many of these traders are saying they will come back next year, IF the shows reverts to being a free event.

Shows such as Airbourne are built on goodwill; much of it has been lost this year. Visitors have felt ripped off, locals have felt done because effectively they were being asked to pay twice, and the traders are fuming. But if the council is sensible, and if they listen to the people as they've said they would, then they can still save Airbourne – and that's what really counts.

Have a good week!