A MAJOR new event for Keighley takes place this weekend.

Keighley Carnival is being held in Victoria Park on Saturday and Sunday, September 9 and 10.

And organisers have this week announced the line up.

The event is themed around The Greatest Showman.

There will be a parade in the park starting at noon on Saturday, and a stage show, market and funfair.

Leading the parade is an animatronic elephant, and the band BD1 Brass.

Stage Invaders will present The Greatest Showman between 1pm and 2pm.

They will be followed on stage by Charlie's School of Dance, and then – from 2.30-3.30pm – Hot Aire! concert band.

Following an address by MP Robbie Moore, Rajasthan Heritage Brass Band will perform between 4.15pm and 5pm.

Next up is Hit the Lights, which covers all genres and eras, and then – at 6.30pm – Bolt Academy.

Performing between 7.30pm and 8.15pm will be Nigel Passey.

On Sunday, there are magicians and clowns on stage from 12.30pm, and people will have the chance to learn circus skills – plus there will be the funfair, market stalls and other attractions.

The event is being sponsored by BRSK.

Organisers say the carnival will have "traditional elements of a gala – but with a modern twist".

A gala committee that formed prior to the pandemic to help raise funds for charity Living Lights, which runs a foodbank and outreach service, reformed to create the carnival.

The event was originally due to be held last year, but was cancelled out of respect following the death of the late Queen Elizabeth II. There were also delays to the plans due to pandemic restrictions.

"The Greatest Showman theme was chosen for the carnival as it's about inclusiveness and it is hoped members of Keighley's diverse communities will enjoy the event together," says Patrick McDonnell, founder and director of Living Lights and former chair of the carnival committee.

"The committee has received tremendous support, and we've some fantastic professional bands and acts taking part in the Saturday stage show.

"There is a funfair as well as the stage show at Victoria Park, where the parade will end and the greatest show will begin!"

Entry to the event is free, and tokens will be on sale for the funfair.

Funds raised through the carnival will go towards the work of Living Lights, Keighley-based small animal rescue Furever Loved and Oxenhope hospice Manorlands.