The wheels are in motion for another spectacular Ilkley Carnival, with the 2014 theme, ‘The Yorkshire Tour’ announced today.
After consulting Ilkley parents the committee agreed the theme should celebrate Yorkshire with a nod to the Tour de France. Stunt cyclists will lead the traditional May Day parade on Monday, May 5 through the streets of the town.

And with the hunt on for even more beneficiaries to share in the profits from Ilkley’s largest family event, the committee of volunteers promises a real community day.
“We know the town will be gearing up for the Tour de France but after talking with parent parade organisers, we took the majority view that a cycling or French theme would be too restrictive for a 1,000 strong parade,” said committee chairman Andrew Stacey.
“We felt “The Yorkshire Tour” allows schools and community groups to embrace all there is to celebrate in our region from seaside towns and landmarks to historic figures and inventions while giving businesses and retailers the chance to start their own “tour” support activity that will complement and support the carnival theme.”
Alongside today’s theme announcement, the committee is reminding schools that they can also apply for beneficiary status through a new online application form at ilkleycarnival.org.
“Last year over £12k was raised for local community groups with £6k going to Ilkley and District Good Neighbours. We’re still looking for a primary beneficiary to receive 50 per cent of the profits and will be conducting interviews with six shortlisted groups in early February,” said Andrew. “We’re urging people to think now about how carnival funds could benefit their organisation or school and apply before the February 7 deadline.”
With acts and entertainment still to be confirmed, Ilkley Carnival favourites will be back including the retailer shop window display competition, Carnival Capers, Marshalls fair and the promise of a few surprises.
“Our first hurdle is securing sponsorship to help cover the cost of the event and give us a strong foundation for further fundraising for the event and ultimately for the community,” Andrew said. “We have a variety of sponsor and advertising packages available and we would love to hear from old and new supporters to ensure “The Yorkshire Tour” makes for as spectacular and successful a carnival as the bumper 2013 event.”
He added: “This will be a year to remember for Ilkley with the Tour de France racing through our town. May sees Ilkley Carnival kick off a season of unique celebrations and we’re counting on our community to join in, make history and make a difference to our future.”
For details about becoming a sponsor and available advertising packages contact carnival committee member Colin Watson on 07885 200640. To join the carnival’s team of volunteers contact Andrew Stacey on 07951 890836 and follow @ilkleycarnival on twitter and facebook.