A PROGRAMME of summer activities is being organised by the Ilkley Youth and Community Association (IYCA) in a bid to head off the clarion cry of "there's nothing to do in Ilkley!"

Treasurer of IYCA Ian Laven and chairman Martin Smith are putting the programme together with partners including The Youth Service, Joze School of Dance, Bradford Council, Kokoro Academy Martial Arts, local Scout and Guiding officers, as well as assistance from social housing trust Incommunities.

The Army Display team has agreed to come to Ilkley on August 2, while discussions with the Police and Fire Service are on-going. All events will be staffed by suitably qualified personnel, each of whom will have a valid DBS certificate.

The decision to organise the events was taken following a meeting at the Youth Club last week. Mr Laven said: "Excellent progress is being made in arranging a series of weekly summer activities between June 24 and September 5 for all the primary and senior school students of the town who claim there is nothing to do in the summer holidays, unless paid for. We decided to do something about it.

"The events will be free, but signing up will be necessary as places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. We have applied for funding from Keighley Area committee, Ilkley Parish Council and the Rotary Clubs of Ilkley and Ilkley Wharfedale, as well as using some of our own funds."

Activities planned so far include: A junior students walk from the Old Bridge along the Dales Way to Addingham, with refreshments being provided in Addingham, prior to returning. Following a light lunch at the Cavendish Pavilion, a senior students walk along the Dales Way back to Ilkley followed by organised activities and a barbecue. Transport to the Cavendish will be provided but participants will need to arrange their own transport home from Curly Hill. Kokoro Academy will provide introductions to Taekwondo and kick boxing at the Warehouse. Dance sessions at The Warehouse with both Bradford Council's dancing officer and Joze Dance School. A session of rounders’ and a five a side friendly completion are also under consideration providing supervision can be found

A schedule of events will be published later this month. Mr Laven added: "Additional ideas and offers to help/fund would be appreciated."