The organisers of the Skipton Gala and the Ilkley Carnival have confirmed that their 2021 events will not go ahead, despite the end of lockdown restrictions before the summer.
Andrew Stacey, Chairman of Ilkley Carnival committee said: “We had hoped to bring the community together to celebrate May Day, however the Government restrictions unfortunately won’t allow this to happen. The committee will reconvene after the summer and focus on making Ilkley Carnival 2022 one to remember.”
The Ilkley Carnival committee said the decision to cancel was 'unfortunate' but that it did consider all other options - including moving the event to a date later in the year. However, this potentially impacted on other events. Also the Parade is a massive part of the Carnival and with restrictions still in place for groups meeting up and the impact of the school holidays on such preparations, it wasn’t possible to find an alternative date.
Andrew added: “The financial implications were also important. Until large gatherings and events resume and we see the additional measures required to ensure a safe event it is difficult to plan. Any restrictions on numbers or additional costs could have impacted on the long-term viability of the event.
“Whilst this is disappointing news the Carnival Committee want to thank all of the local schools, groups, helpers and sponsors for their patience and understanding during this difficult time. The plan is to keep the theme chosen for last year's event, Our Planet, so we look forward to seeing everyone on May Day, Monday 2 May 2022 – in the meantime please stay safe and well.”
In a statement posted on Facebook, Skipton Charities Gala Chairman Geoff Dunn said: "We have made the decision that this year's Skipton Gala will not be going ahead, due to the on going Covid situation. I feel the Committee and I couldn’t do the event justice in the current climate. The Gala doesn’t have the manpower or funds to guarantee everyone’s safety so it’s with regret we have to delay another year until 2022.
"Next year's Gala has been booked and will go ahead on Saturday 11th June 2022 when we hope that we can all come together as a community and enjoy the day once more. Stay safe and well. We miss you all."
Plans to revive Keighley Gala sadly didn't happen in 2020 - a spokesperson told Rombalds Radio this week that a decision had not yet been taken as to whether the event would go ahead this year.
In Silsden, a Gala float travelled around town on the day in late July while streaming live on Facebook so that people could stay at home.
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