AN action-packed day of family-friendly events is set to help Shipley bounce back after lockdown.

Shipley Unlocked, to be held on Saturday, July 31, will see the town taken over by markets, both indoors and outdoors, and street entertainment.

The event, organised by Shipley Town Council in partnership with Bradford Council and other groups, will run from 9am to 5pm and will include an expanded open air market from Bradford Markets in the town’s main market place, with additional stalls located in the shopping precinct between Kirkgate and Wellcroft.

There will be street theatre from Shipley-based Q20 Events and a special craft market will take place in Shipley Underground Market.

Kirkgate Centre and Hive Community Arts Bradford will provide activities including arts and crafts during the day.

Bradford Libraries will host more activities in Wellcroft, just outside the Shipley Library building. Crowgill Park will host cycling events, arts and crafts and a bouncy castle.

The event is set to provide Shipley businesses with a boost after being affected by the pandemic and lockdowns over the last 17 months.

Joe Ashton, Shipley Town Council clerk, says he hopes the event can capitalise on a feel-good factor if all of the remaining restrictions are lifted on July 19.

He said: “It is a good opportunity to get everybody back together and to celebrate what Shipley has to offer.

“It is a good chance for people to get outdoors while the weather is good.

It will also encourage people to use local businesses and see what they have to offer

“About 90 per cent of the event will be held outdoors, so it won’t be affected if the restrictions change before then.

“It is free unless people decide to buy anything from the markets, or refreshments, which will be available.”

Councillor Martin Love (Green, Shipley) says the event will bring everyone a bit of fun.

He said: “The people and businesses of Shipley deserve it.

“It will help to start lifting the gloom and help get back to normal.

“It should be a good day and hopefully people can go outside and have a bit of fun.”

Shipley Town Council is particularly keen to encourage microbusinesses, makers, local charities and community organisations to take part in the event.

Stall fees will be kept low and one-off insurance cover is available. Prospective traders/organisations wishing to enquire about booking a stall on the open air market for Shipley Unlocked can call Bradford Markets on 01274 432245 or email bradford.markets@bradford.gov.uk

For other enquiries, please contact the Town Council office, email shipleytownclerk@gmail.com