SNOWBOARDING, Blackpool donkeys and BBC sports presenter Tanya Arnold will all be at a packed Bingley Christmas Fair and Lights Switch On this year.

The big day always draws thousands to the town to join in the fun, said Howard Martin, of the Chamber of Trade which organises the event.

He also revealed that the fair is now self-funding - thanks to generous sponsors and standing on its own feet without cash support from Bradford Council for the first time.

Mr Martin said: " A new attraction this year will be a snowboarding simulator for those brave enough.

"It'll be interesting to see who can keep their balance - maybe we'll persuade Tanya to have a go!

“The Chamber always attempts to ensure that this is a true family event and that all the rides, attractions and entertainment is provided free.

"In addition to the usual free rides and the ever popular land train we even had a visit by the Blackpool donkeys last year and are pleased to be able to say that, weather permitting, they will once again be in attendance.”

The event takes place on Saturday in Bingley market square will include a whole host of free rides and attractions for the children as well as visits to Santa in his grotto, complete with a free small present for all.

A full outdoor market stacked with seasonal food and drink will also be on offer as well as a Christmas-themed indoor market taking place in Bingley Arts Centre.

Mr Martin thanked the Chamber members who freely donate their time to organising it and also the generosity of local sponsors, including Sainsbury’s, Emerald Publishing, Damart and 4Urban.

"Thanks to those sponsors for the first time ever we have not had to seek any financial contribution from Bradford Council.

"We are however extremely grateful to the Council for their help and advice with all the required planning that goes alongside staging such an event," he said

The fair starts at 10.30am and runs through to 4.30pm when the lights will be switched on by Miss Arnold, who is also an ambassador for the Bradford-based One In A Million charity which helps local under privileged children and is supported by a number of Bingley Chamber of Trade members.