WORK to lay the foundations of Ilkley's new bandstand on The Grove will begin this month, according to the project team.

Committee member Barrie Pickles said the contract had been awarded and workers would be going on site to start landscaping and paving on the green lawns fronting the former Grove Convalescent Hospital.

The appeal has now raised £50,000 of the £70,000 needed and the project team is beginning a huge effort to try to get the last £20,000.

But Mr Pickles said that some of the £50,000 was still in the form of promises rather than cash and the most difficult part of the project could be to get local businesses and residents to contribute for the final push.

"We are hoping that the whole thing will be completed by late July or early August," said Mr Pickles.

Some of the fundraising events planned include a golf day at Ilkley Golf Club and a garden party in Langbar.

"It is hoped that these events, plus a few more contributions from local businesses and generous members of the public, will get us there," said Mr Pickles.

The sound of music will be also be used to raise cash for the bandstand.

The celebrated Black Dyke Band will perform at the Kings Hall - to swell the coffers of the Ilkley Rotary Club project.

Tickets, at a cost of £12.50 for front stalls and balcony, £60 for boxes and £10 for rear stalls, are available from Ilkley Tourist Information Centre. Prices include interval tea and coffee and a souvenir programme. The concert will take place on Friday, June 1, at 7.30pm.