A SERIES of entertainments are planned from next month to help transport ill and elderly pilgrims from Keighley to the holy destination of Lourdes.

The Massabielle Lourdes pilgrimage group needs to raise £8,000, and is organising a Ceilidh night, an Italian themed celebration and a charity golf tournament.

Spokesmen for the group Sean Gilligan and Michael Devlin said the impact of Brexit has made the pilgrimage more expensive.

Mr Gilligan said: "Think how many people in Keighley have travelled to Lourdes over the years – there must be thousands.

"It has become so costly now it would be easy to just throw in the towel and say it's become too difficult, but that would be a great shame."

He explained that this year's pilgrimage will run from May 26 to June 2.

As in previous years students of Holy Family Catholic School will be among the group, to ensure older or infirm pilgrims can make the journey in comfort.

Mr Gilligan said: "Massabielle was formed six years ago to take assisted pilgrims to Lourdes together with doctors, nurses and carers.

"And for over 50 years Holy Family has been sending senior students and staff to Lourdes to work in the hospitals and hostels caring for the sick.

"In order to make the pilgrimage available to all, Massabielle organises fundraising activities throughout the year.

"The target this year is £8,000, which is needed to defray the costs of flights, coach travel and hospice and hotel accommodation.

"Support, help, encouragement and enthusiasm are urgently needed to help make the experience of Lourdes last a lifetime."

The first fundraiser, the Ceilidh night, is on Saturday February 4 at 7.30pm in Branshaw Golf Club.

This features an evening of Irish music, song and dance with the band Rakish Paddy.

£7.50 tickets can be reserved at the door by calling Mr Gilligan on 01535 603510 or Mr Devlin on 01535 604875.

On Sunday February 19 there will be a Grand Italian Celebration at University Academy Keighley, including a three-course meal and entertainment.

The reception starts at 1pm and the meal will be served at 1.30pm.

Tickets are £13 for adults and free for children and are available by calling Mr Gilligan or Mr Devlin.

On Monday May 1 there will be an annual charity golf tournament at Branshaw Golf Club, open to teams of four at a cost of £80 per team.

Any individual or company wishing to sponsor a hole should call 07733 295248.

Entry forms are available from 2017 club captain Ian O'Neill by calling 07903 033741, or by e-mailing ianalba.oneill@gmail.com