Carnival organisers say they already have more than £1,000 to invest in the community after “incredible” support from businesses.

So far more than 20 firms have given their support to the Ilkley Carnival helping to raise the money to be ploughed back into projects and initiatives in the town.

Members of the carnival organising committee say they are overwhelmed by the backing of local firms and retailers who are supporting the event through advertising and sponsorship.

Colin Watson, who is volunteering his time to manage advertising, sponsorship and co-ordinate the Under 9s football tournament, said sponsor take up has smashed expectations meaning the new-look carnival brochure has been extended to accommodate the interest.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the response we’ve had,” he said.

“Because we’ve added more pages to the brochure, there is still time book space and receive a banner at the show ground.”

Tickets for the carnival, which takes place on May 7, are on sale at Top Marks in the Moors Shopping Centre and at the Ilkley Tourist Information Centre and online in April. All tickets sold before the event are at a reduced cost of £3 for an adult and £1 from a child.

For more information, go to ilkleycarnival.org