ILKLEY Carnival is inviting local groups and organisations to apply to be the 2019 primary beneficiary.

One local group has the chance to receive 50 per cent of the profits from this year’s show stopping musical event with the remaining 50 per cent distributed amongst other local good causes.

Carnival chairman Andrew Stacey said previous primary beneficiaries had received as much as £8,600 to help improve lives within the local community.

“We are now looking for the group, the organisation or the charity that will be selected to receive the lion’s share of the 2019 funds,” he said. “Applicants need to demonstrate where the money will go, how it will be used and what value they can bring to help us make this the best Ilkley Carnival ever.”

Last year, the committee selected Burley Scout and Guide group as the primary beneficiary and, with record breaking numbers at the showground, gifted £7,500 towards new facilities for their hut.

The remaining £7,500 was donated to other organisations including Martin House Hospice, Clark Foley and Ilkley Rugby club.

Bryan Collins, group chairman at Burley Scout and Guide group said: “The Burley-in-Wharfedale Scout and Guide Group is extremely grateful for the support of the Ilkley Carnival. The funds received have helped us build a greatly needed new headquarters for our large and thriving group of 14 active units of Scouts and Guides, from Rainbows and Beavers to Rangers and Explorers.”

“The modern Scout & Guide training programmes are very broadly based and as well as traditional hiking and camping, youngsters are supported in their self-development and encouraged towards responsible citizenship with an inclusive outlook. The new HQ will enable us more easily provide that experience. Many leaders and youngsters from the Group assisted at the carnival and greatly enjoyed the participation.”

Andrew added: “Last year saw our biggest parade ever, with more than 1,200 people taking part including local schools, playgroups, theatre groups and organisations marching through the centre of town. We are very lucky to have many volunteers from local organisations who help make the event happen, from setting up during the days before to taking down at the end of carnival day itself. The remaining 50% of the profits raised goes back to these groups because without their support, the carnival simply couldn’t happen.

“We would urge any local charities, schools, playgroups or organisations to apply to be the primary beneficiary as, not only does the larger donation mean we can help make a real difference, it also significantly increases their profile and raises awareness for the cause, helping socially as well as financially.”

Apply online at http://www.ilkleycarnival.org/ or email Ilkley Carnival secretary Mari Hunt for an application form onat carnisec@gmail.com. Successful shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interviewed on March 4, 2019.