KEIGHLEY Gala will be held next year after a new committee came together.

The group promise a procession through the town centre to Victoria Park where there will be a funfair and a stage for performers.

A Keighley Town Council committee has pledged up to £5,000 to match-fund any money that can be found from other sources.

The theme of the Gala will be The Greatest Show, taking its name from the hit Hugh Jackman movie musical.

Gala chairman Patrick McDonnell said the gala would be a celebration of diversity, inclusivity and friendship across all communities in Keighley.

He said: “Entrants will be encouraged to decorate floats and showcase their talents around the theme  There will also be a competition for Gala King and Queen which will be open to local children.”

The new committee brings together experienced organisers from local charities, personnel from W Marshalls Amusements which runs the annual funfair, and former local councillor Cath Bacon.

Cath said: “Many people have said what a shame it is that there is no longer a Keighley Gala and we are really looking forward to its return.There’s a lot of work to do and we are looking to link up with local businesses, community organisations and groups who would like to take part.

“The committee has already applied to Keighley Town Council. They currently await the decision of the Finance committee confirming a pledge from the Events and Leisure committee to match-fund up to £5,000.

“We are now looking for Keighley businesses to come forward and help us reach that target as soon as possible.  If 50 local businesses pledge £100 each then we will have reached our goal to help fund the gala.”

Keighley town mayor Cllr Peter Corkindale this week said he would be delighted to see the return of Keighley Gala, adding: “It is a great way of bringing people together and has been missed since it ceased three years ago.”

Marshalls Amusement will run a funfair in Victoria Park on Friday and Saturday, June5 and 6, with the gala being held on the Sunday.

Anyone interested in supporting the gala should contact the membership secretary Liz McDonnell by emailing info@keighleycharitygala.co.uk or visiting the gala’s Facebook page.