ADVENTUROUS plans to turn Otley Victorian Fayre into a four day event have been revealed.

Some want to develop the one day pre-Christmas fayre into a four day spectacular featuring torch light processions, late night shopping and a fair.

But unless it gets the backing of the town at next week's annual general meeting the plan is destined to fall at the first hurdle.

Deputy mayor, Councillor Nigel Francis, said he wanted the event to expand into four days and move from its usual December slot to the last week in November.

"It would be a totally adventurous thing for Otley to do and the biggest thing the town has ever staged, but I think with the backing of the people we could pull it off."

Coun Francis, a member of the Otley Victorian Fayre Committee, said his idea was to have four themed days incorporating the Victorian Fayre, a spirit of Christmas day and the turning on of the Christmas lights.

Town centre roads will have to be closed and events, such as the Otley Farmers Market, timed to coincide with the fayre.

Coun Francis said: "We need to get people on board, if people are unwilling then all this will fall at the first hurdle."

After last year when the event was cancelled because of the firefighters strike, it is hoped more people will want to come forward.

Committee member Mike Gittins said: "What we want is enough people to run the event before and during the day.

"When we start planning the fayre people come forward and are full of enthusiasm, but then it emerges that they will be busy on the day, so we lose a number of volunteers.

"At the same time, we need new ideas and some of us who have been on the committee for a few years could use fresh ideas."

l The AGM is on Tuesday at 7pm in the Red Lion, Kirkgate, Otley. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.