THORNTON Gala will be reborn this summer after gaining the funding it needed to come back after a decade long break.

The event will take place on the Hill Top Recreational Fields on Saturday July 21, and feature music and dance performances, stalls featuring local businesses, and celebrations of the village’s rich history.

It is just one part of a huge year for the village, that will also see celebrations to mark the anniversary of its most famous resident.

The gala was a highlight of the village calendar, attracting thousands of people, but has not been held in the village for 10 years.

The idea to re-start the event came after a successful market was trialled in the village last summer, and organisers hope it will boost community pride.

Talks with local businesses began late last year, and after widespread backing, and grants worth £3,000, the gala now has enough support to now go ahead.

Residents of the village are being asked to suggest other events that could be held on the day.

Bradford Council last week announced it would provide a grant of £2,500 for the gala, which has been topped off with an anonymous donation of £500.

South Square Centre, home to an art gallery, workshops and local businesses, is the latest organisation to partner up with the team who are pulling the event together.

St James’ Church will be creating a play, arts and crafts area on the day, and there will also be dance demonstrations by local dance troupes and a boot camp.

Bradford Council’s Road Safety Team will be giving advice and guidance on road safety as well as “bike ability” demonstrations.

The gala is taking place just a few days before the village celebrates the anniversary of one of its most famous residents.

Emily Bronte, author of Wuthering Heights, was born in Thornton on July 30 1818, and a number of events will be held in the village to celebrate.

This summer will also see the unveiling of the Bronte Stones, a series of sculpted stones that will be installed at four locations between the Bronte Birthplace on Market Street and Haworth, where the sisters spent much of their lives.

The Bronte Stones project has been organised by the Bradford Literature Festival, and details of their locations, and which top writers will pen the words that will be sculpted onto them, will be announced later this week.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Sport and Culture, said: “Bradford Council is delighted to be able to provide funding to help revive the Thornton Gala after a 10-year gap.

“These events really do bring visitors into the district.

“I hope everyone has a marvellous time and, fingers crossed, the sun will shine on the day.”

Anyone with ideas on what else can be added to the gala can email thorntongala18@gmail.com