NEW volunteers are carrying a torch for Riddlesden Gala as it adopts an Olympic theme for this year’s event.

The gala on Saturday June 13 will as usual begin with the procession setting off at 1pm and heading for Riddlesden St Mary’s School.

The gala will be the 37th held in Riddlesden, and is being organised by villagers who came forward when the long-established committee stood down last year.

The current committee is continuing to look for more volunteers to help with organisation over the next few months or lend a hand on the day.

Gala secretary Gill Bennison  said: “We are still a small committee but are making great progress in securing an exciting procession, entertainment entertainment and activities on the day.

There will be fairground rides, lots of activities and stalls, refreshments, home baked cakes and a café, and the Marquis of Granby pub is supporting us with a bar for the first time.

“The gala will continue to provide good community and family fun, raising funds for local charities. If you would like to submit a request for a donation please get in touch riddlesden.gala@outlook.com or message via social media.”

People should get in touch using the same channels if they would like to have a stall at the gala, join the committee or help on the day. Funding is also being sought.

The committee has teamed up with Keighley Big Local, a regeneration body operating in Riddlesden and Stockbridge, to run community workshops in the run-up to the June 13 event.

Gill said: “During the workshops you can make flags from natural ingredients to wave in the procession. We are also looking for a local Gala King and Queen. Entry forms will be available soon in Riddlesden, at the school and on our social media.”

Visit The Riddlesden Gala 2020 on Facebook or riddlesdengala2020 on Instagram for further information.