LOCAL groups and organisations are being reminded to apply for Ilkley Carnival’s beneficiary status before the February 6 deadline.

With just two weeks to go, the Ilkley Carnival committee is encouraging local schools, charities and organisations to apply online with one organisation or charity being given the chance to receive half the profits raised at the event. The remaining 50 per cent will be shared amongst volunteering organisations.

In 2014, special needs support group, LS29, benefited from the primary beneficiary status, receiving a donation of £7,500 which ensured a weekend away for over 100 children with special needs, their siblings and their parents and carers.

Carnival committee chairman Andrew Stacey said: “Applications are up 20 per cent on 2014 as the popularity increases. We’re so pleased to have the beneficiary system in place at the carnival and it gives us great privilege to be able to give back to the community. We’re urging everyone to act fast and not to miss this opportunity!”

You can apply online at ilkleycarnival.org, or email Ilkley Carnival secretary Mari Hunt on carnisec@gmail.com for an application form. Deadline for applications is February 6 and the interview process for the shortlisted groups will begin on February 25.