Back in 1982 a small group of Otley people met to discuss the possibility of reviving Otley’s Carnival. Headed by Mayor-elect Coun. Jim Spencer, a committee of nine individuals set to work and the result was the 1983 Carnival, a hugely successful event. In 2008 we celebrate the 25^th Anniversary. With this in mind and the fact that the event last year was very sadly cancelled at the last minute due to the dreadful weather conditions, we hope that the people of Otley will wholeheartedly support this year’s Carnival. Any organisation who has previously entered, have another go – new organisations give it a try – individuals take part in any way you can – let’s re-create the wonderful enthusiasm shown 25 years ago.

ENTER A FLOAT OR WALKING TABLEAU:
We hope you all liked the shortened route we started in 2006. The parade is a good opportunity to advertise your organisation or business and have a fun day into the bargain. We will accept entries from anyone or anything that is decorated. We may be able to help with transport – get your requests in a.s.a.p. And don’t forget to tell all your friends to vote for the Keith Wilkinson Memorial Trophy for the best float in action, judged on the parade route by the spectators (voting forms in the Wharfedale and the Carnival programme).

COME AND JOIN US ON THE SHOWFIELD:
Bring along a stall, sideshow or other attraction and raise funds for your organisation. Once again we have a great programme planned for the field.

ADDITIONAL FORMS FOR FLOATS AND STALLS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE PARADE AND STALL CO-ORDINATORS (addresses below)

DRESS UP AND BE A COLLECTOR (MIN. AGE 16 unless accompanied by an adult):
Prizes are awarded for the best costumes and highest collections, and you can enter on the day. We would like to emphasise that a large part of our income which goes towards running the Carnival and to the beneficiaries, comes from the street collection and we would ask that all floats and walking groups take collecting boxes to collect on the parade route. In addition we would urge individuals not attached to floats to dress up and collect and really get into the crowd.

SELL PROGRAMMES AND RAFFLE TICKETS:
Just contact a Committee Member and volunteer.

AIMS OF THE CARNIVAL:
To give local children a day to remember.
To raise money for chosen local charities or organisations
To enable local charities or organisations to raise funds.
To promote Otley and bring visitors to the town.

Honorary President: Deputy Town Mayor
Chairman:
Mrs Wendy Corden, 10 The Whartons, Otley LS21 2AG, tel. 01943 463954
Secretary:
Mr Derek Mason, 71 The Whartons, Otley LS21 2BS, tel. 01943 462439
Stalls Co-ordinator:
Mrs June Galling, Mellieha, E. Busk Lane, Otley LS21 1HT, tel. 01943 467549
Parade:
Mrs Diana Allen, Beech House, Birdcage Walk, Otley LS21 3HB, tel. 01943 462498