VOLUNTEERS are being sought to take over the organisation of Otley Victorian Fayre and the town's food and drink festival.

Chair of Otley Town Partnership Steph Lee said: "After a great deal of thought I, and my fellow Otley Town Partnership directors, have decided to stop organising the Victorian Fayre and the Food & Drink festival.

"I have been personally involved with the event since 2005 and have seen it grow to the largest free event in the town. This is an event that benefits all the businesses that open on the day, as well as selling our fabulous town to outsiders.

"Unfortunately, none of us are getting any younger and we feel strongly that if the town wants these events to continue, a completely new, younger, organising team needs to be found. I am not asking for helpers, I am asking for a completely new team to take it over.

"I and my fellow directors are happy to give guidance but do not want any involvement in actually running the event.

"A small team of three can manage both events prior to the actual day and we would give direction as to who to contact and when.

"On the day of the Victorian Fayre a team of at least 25 are required, at different times, varying from 6am to 7.30pm. On the day of the Food & Drink a team of about 15 are required at different times from 7am to 5pm.

"These are both profitable events. If you think you could put a team together and take on these hugely important events for the town, contact us for more information."

Steph is hosting a meeting at the Town Partnership room on Mercury Row (bus station end, blue door set back from the road next to the barbers) at 7pm on Monday, January 23rd when she will explain exactly what is involved, how many meetings and people will be needed as well as the income cost figures for both events.

For more information or if you can help email: enquires@victorianfayre.co.uk