Organisers of Ilkley Carnival have announced a change in the way profits will be distributed – meaning good causes have the chance to enjoy a greater slice of help.

Recent tradition has seen members of the carnival committee give out thousands of pounds to up to 20 local causes at the end of the annual event to help fund specific projects.

However, this year one good cause will receive 50 per cent of the profits from the event and the remaining 50 per cent will be handed out to groups and charities helping on the day.

Organisers hope to raise £10,000 in 2013, meaning one beneficiary could scoop up to £5,000 to help improve lives in Ilkley.

Carnival committee chairman Andrew Stacey said: “While it is always nice to give crucial assistance to lots of different good causes in Ilkley, we really want to make 2013 a year where we can offer even more help than usual.

“We’re hoping lots of new good causes step up and bid to become a 50 per cent beneficiary and if we can hit our fundraising targets, the carnival and everybody involved can make a real difference for people living in Ilkley.”

The event, which will run next year on May 6, has raised about £80,000 in 15 years.

The carnival committee will meet in January to select a shortlist of candidates, who will be asked to make a ten-minute presentation later in the month. The successful 50 per cent beneficiary will be named in February 2013.

If you are interested in becoming a 50 per cent beneficiary you must download an application form from the carnival website via ilkleycarnival.org and complete and return it by December 28.

Meanwhile, schools have until Monday December 3 to collect pupils’ suggestions for the 2013 Ilkley Carnival theme.

Entries received so far from Westville House include cultural traditions and historic eras and the Ghyll Royd school council suggested films or superheroes.