SAVE our carnival – that's the plea from the organisers of a long-running gala.
Elland Carnival Committee fear that without help this year's fete could be the last.
Committee member Margaret Moore said at the latest meeting members had been forced to admit the future of the once-huge event could be in jeopardy.
She said there were concerns over possible debts from this year's carnival on August 16 and the fact that the majority of the nine committee members are over 60.
She said: "If there should be another disappointing carnival this year, it was felt that if we do not receive favourable backing from the local businesses and organisations on the carnival day, then it would be impossible to carry on."
She said a decision to fold would devastate the committee but more community spirit was needed from the residents of Elland.
"We are still going ahead with the event this year and will be giving it 200 per cent, if not more, to try and keep this tradition and fun community event alive," she added. The carnival, which has previously been held at the Nu-Swift site, traditionally consists of a walking procession, a fancy-dress competition, a bonny baby show, a baking contest, art competition, vintage bike and car competition and stalls.
Councillor Diane Park (Lib Dem, Elland) has been made committee chairwoman and hopes to rally the town.
She said: "Elland is a great place and it does have wonderful community spirit. We simply need to harness it.
"The important thing is that this carnival is mainly about the children and we want it to be a fabulous day for them – after all, they are the future of Elland."
People are needed to join as volunteers, hire stalls, donate prizes, enter competitions and generally give support.
The committee meets monthly and anyone is welcome to join the next meeting on May 28 at the Rams Bar, The Fleece, Elland.
Anyone who wants further information, to help on the day, hire a stall or enter a competition should call secretary Melanie Rumble on 07825429034 or call Coun Park on 07872603646.
Courier Comment - young need to support carnivalIs the community gala becoming a thing of the past? Vote now in our poll on the right.Elland community section - all the news from the town, in one place. Click here and save to your favourites.The full article contains 405 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
