The Italian connection

Even the guest of honour at the town's first Carnevale took along youngsters to join in the fun.

The chancellor from the Italian consulate in Manchester was accompanied by women teachers and their children.

The party was organised by Italian expatriates who live in Keighley to mark the traditional Italian carnival held at this time of year.

The celebration has its roots in the Middle Ages and symbolises the last time a community could enjoy festive gathering before Lent.

Children are very much the focus and play traditional blindfolded games to discover sweets and treats.

The Keighley Carnevale was organised with support from Age Concern worker Julie Wade, who is working with Keighley's Italian elders.

The seniors created decorations and traditional costumes for the children to wear during Sunday's event at Cougar Park.

Julie says family and tradition was still important to Italians who lived locally, and this was one of the first times their contribution to Keighley's rich cultural diversity had been recognised.

Julie adds: "There are many senior Italian people who have lived and worked for the greater part of their lives in Keighley.

"Their contribution to the post-war development of West Yorkshire and Britain has remained largely unrecognised.

"Using the carnevale as a vehicle, the elders were able to reintroduce an element of Italian culture to the younger generation.

"It was a huge success. We had everybody, from the little children to the eldest people who I work with."

The organisers want to thank Keighley Cougars for providing the premises free, and Peter Black Holdings which helped fund the event.

Julie says: "Almost all members of the community have at some time in their lives worked for Peter Black, and hold the company in extremely high regard."

Pictured, left, are Maria Volpe and Gilda Pacholtchzym in traditional dress.

And, right, Jordan Greenwood (5) and Davina Console (6) dress up for the occasion.