Carnival organisers say they already have more than £1,000 to invest in the community after “incredible” support from businesses.

So far more than 20 firms have given their support to the Ilkley Carnival helping to raise the money to be ploughed back into projects and initiatives in the town.

Members of the carnival organising committee say they are overwhelmed by the backing of local firms and retailers who are supporting through advertising and sponsorship – despite the efforts of a bogus official trying to capitalise on the carnival drive.

Recently organisers warned of someone claiming to be from the carnival posing as Colin Watson to try to attract sponsorship money.

The real Colin Watson, who is volunteering his time to manage advertising, sponsorship and co-ordinate the Under 9s Football Tournament, said sponsor take- up had smashed expectations, so the new-look carnival brochure had been extended to accommodate the interest.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the response we’ve had – and thankfully there have been no more reports of a ‘bogus’ Colin Watson capitalising on our efforts,” he said.

“Because we’ve added more pages to the brochure, there is still time book space and receive a banner at the show ground.”

Tickets are scheduled to be available online in April for the carnival, which takes place on Monday, May 7.

“Our aim is to make the carnival accessible and engaging, we want everyone to feel involved,” Mr Watson said.

“We’ve updated our website which also has a new address ilkleycarnival.org, launched Facebook and Twitter accounts and the next step is to launch our online ticket sales facility.”

Carnival tickets are on sale at Top Marks in the Moors Shopping Centre and at the Ilkley Tourist Information Centre.

All tickets sold before the event are at a reduced cost of £3 for an adult and £1 from a child.

For more information go to ilkleycarnival.org