Yorkshire and Ilkley’s best-known anthem is getting a makeover fit for the 21st century in a bid to stop the song dying out.

X Factor talent developer Eliot Kennedy and actor Brian Blessed - who is rapping on the song - have been drafted in to give an up-to-the-minute boost to traditional favourite On Ilkla Moor Baht ‘At.

Tourist body Welcome to Yorkshire announced today it wants to give the piece of cultural heritage new appeal to the younger generation, following claims last year that the classic is dying out.

Also working on the updated song is Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

It is expected to be released this summer with a short film shot on Ilkley Moor.

Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity said: “On Ilkla Moor Baht ‘At has long been considered Yorkshire’s national anthem and we just couldn’t resist giving it a modern twist.

“Like everything we do, the song is a chance to shout about what’s great about Yorkshire but it’s not just about Yorkshire traditions or nodding our caps to our cultural heritage, it’s also a chance to show off Yorkshire’s vibrant creative scene with a re-working of the song with ‘added swagger’.”

Masterminding the transformation is Grammy award-winning producer Eliot Kennedy, who has worked with the likes of X factor stars Little Mix and JLS, as well as the Spice Girls and Gary Barlow.

Proud Yorkshireman and Flash Gordon star Blessed, 75, said: “The version of the song is a larger than life take on a traditional classic and I am singing for Yorkshire, loud and proud. My vocal chords are renowned across the nation and I hope Yorkshire and the rest of the world will sit up and take notice of this valuable piece of Yorkshire heritage.

“When you have pride in your roots, there’s nothing more fun and joyous than singing about it. Enjoy! And don’t forget your hats!”