AS the summer draws to a close, Ilkley Youth and Community Association (IYCA) say they have been delighted with the response to their Summer of Fun activities organised for young people, of all ages, in Ilkley.

Ilkley district councillor Martin Smith (Con, Ilkley) who is chairman of IYCA, said: “The two, exclusive, Clip n Climb sessions were oversubscribed so, if funding can be arranged for next year we would look to arranging three.

"We had a greatly improved response to all of our activities from the younger age groups this year, as we circulated the programme to the first schools, resulting in an average of 22 attending each of events.

"These were very ably run for us by the Bradford Youth service. Various activities including, cricket, football, jenga, chess, balance boards and tug of war were available, with sparkly tattoos, hot chocolate and cooked marshmallows also on hand. The aim, next year, is to broaden the range so that it will appeal to the older age groups.

"Also included this year were tennis activities at the Ilkley Lawn Tennis club which required pre booking. Whilst this showed an excellent response for the under nine age group, it was not as good for those aged ten and over.

"Throughout August IYCA hosted the LS29 Time Holiday Club at their facilities on Little Lane. The sessions were very well attended and thoroughly enjoyed by those who joined in. The month drew to a close with a private barbecue which was prepared and presented by special needs volunteers from Bradford youth Service.

"We pass on our sincere thanks to our sponsors, Ilkley Town Council as well as the Rotary Clubs of Ilkley and Ilkley Wharfedale."