A traditional fell race is to make a return to Addingham Gala after more than 20 years.

This year’s event will see runners dash to the summit of Beamsley Beacon, climbing 1,000 feet and covering nearly six miles.

The race has been reinstated with the help of Ilkley Harriers and will be visible from the gala field.

The new route replaces a race up Addingham Moorside, when around 30 athletes climbed the moor, ran along the Noon Stone and plunged back down. The last one is believed to have been held in 1986 before the bypass was built.

The competition will bring the annual event into line with gala days across Wharfedale and children will have their own chance to race in front of the crowds while waiting for the fell runners to return. A balloon race is also being organised for 4pm to coincide with a signal from the summit to mark the arrival of the first runner.

The theme for this year’s gala, on Saturday, July, 10 is based on the movies, with a parade setting off down Main Street at 1.30pm.

Stalls and attractions will include laser quest, cubkarting, a miniature steam train run by Bradford Model Engineering Club, a penalty shoot-out and traditional coconut shy.

Entertainment will be provided by the Accrington Pipe Band, the Aireville School Samba Band and the Wharfedale Air Training Corps and refreshments include a barbecue by the Addingham Scout Group and cakes and hot drinks.

Handicraft competitions and the pet show will be judged at 10.30am.

A gala spokesman said: “Organisers are encouraging runners to have a family day out with the opportunity to watch the parade on Main Street and to bring their family to the gala field where they can enjoy all the gala activities on offer until they cheer in the energetic member of the family on their return.”

Ilkley Harriers chairman Paul Wood added: “Ilkley Harriers organises a wide range of local races for runners of all ages, from primary school children to veterans, and it is great to be working with a very enthusiastic and capable bunch of people in the gala committee to reinstate this local event.”

Runners can register for the fell race on the gala field between 2.10pm to 2.55pm and the starting flag will be dropped by Ilkley MP Kris Hopkins at 3.10pm.

Sponsorship enquiries for the event should be made to Penny Etchells on 01943 831859 and anyone who would like to help can help Angela Hutton on 07835 022644. Donations of cakes, biscuits and scones can be dropped off in the Memorial Hall between 10am and noon.