For almost 40 years now, Ilkley Literature Festival has been putting the name of the town well and truly on the cultural map.

Festival organisers have done us proud yet again, securing top writers, poets, and personalities whose fame is far from limited to writing, to come to local venues and discuss their work.

Of course the literature festival is much appreciated by the strong local contingent, which will no doubt form a significant section of audiences in the King’s Hall, Ilkley Playhouse, Craiglands Hotel and other venues.

But the success of the festival extends well beyond the walls of the auditorium.

The festival’s fame spreads surprisingly far, gaining interest not only from regional, but also national media.

For a town that that counts leisure and tourism as a major part of its character, such publicity for Ilkley is truly a wonderful bonus.

A single visitor to the town for just one event might contribute to the local economy in a small way.

But it could also pave the way for repeat visits, when word gets round what Ilkley has to offer.

The prestige of the festival also gives a sense of pride to those who live here.

It was something of an honour for Ilkley to have been chosen as the venue for this pioneering event in the North in the beginning.

The long-running success of the festival is testament to the fact that Ilkley’s attractions and amenities – as well as its suitably inspiring charm – are simply ideal for an event of this calibre.