THE Ilkley Playhouse Vintage Fair returns to the Weston Road venue on Saturday, October 28 following a hugely successful event in the spring.

April’s celebration of all things retro, chic and kitsch was the best-attended fair in its three-year history and its organiser has promised the return of a number of popular stallholders, alongside an array of new sellers, later this month.

The fair will feature 20 stalls, brimming with vintage fashion, homeware and furniture, as well as the popular tearoom, supplying wearying shoppers with tempting cakes to provide the sugar rush needed to fuel their return to the retail therapy.

In addition, Ilkley hair and make-up artist, Jessica Bass will be on hand for vintage makeovers. The 21-year-old recently graduated from Craven College with a first class degree in Prosthetics for Performance and is no stranger to the Playhouse, having worked with the company on their recent residency at Minack Theatre in Cornwall.

“It’s not just shopping, it’s a whole vintage experience,” said Jill Coulson, whose Burley-in-Wharfedale-based company Alfie Robot Retro runs the vintage fair. “There’s always such a great, friendly atmosphere - it’s unlike anything else in town.”

This is a view backed up by jewellery and accessories seller Yvonne Robinson of Vintage Rummage Rooms. “I like Ilkley because it's a beautiful town and, as there aren't too many fairs nearby, the locals have great enthusiasm. There is always a good mix of stalls with excellent traders who are super friendly.”

Ilkley-based vintage sewing specialists William and Tilda will be making a first appearance at the fair. The firm, which was recently selected as one of the top 100 small businesses in the UK by Small Business Saturday, will bring sample outfits and examples of its work, which involves creating made-to-measure 1940s and 50s-style bridesmaid outfits.

Other new stalls include Sheffield’s The Queen’s Drawers, who specialise in 60s and 70s mod clothing and accessories for ladies and children, and Moonbow Vintage, which promises a selection of pottery, glassware and textiles.

Popular trader My Vintage Beau, based in Bradford, returns for another fair with a selection of men’s and women’s clothing, as does vintage lighting retailer Light Fandango.

The Ilkley Playhouse Vintage Fair runs from 10am till 4pm on Saturday, October 28. Entrance costs £1 and under 16s are free.