Riddlesden Gala is being staged next Saturday, June 9.

And for the first time a female group of Morris dancers, Rainbow Morris, will be part of the annual procession which sets off at 1pm from Barely Cote Avenue.

The procession will be led by Bingley Grammar School samba band and followed by uniformed groups, including the Scouts and Brownies.

The Silsden All Star Majorettes, floats and people in fancy dress will also feature.

All funds raised will go to Haworth Riding for Disabled and Keighley Kiddicare.

Chairman of the Riddlesden Gala committee Geoffrey Baldwin said: "We would like to raise in excess of £2,000. We are hoping the weather is good and we look forward to a bumper turnout."

The procession will go through the village to Riddlesden St Mary's Primary School, where the gala will be officially opened at 1.45pm. Prizes for the best fancy dress and best float will be given out.

Two bands - rock band BLASH, which originated at the school, and current school blues-style band Balistix - will be playing in the school hall. An Indian dancing demonstration will follow.

The usual children's activities will be on offer, including a ride on Keighley Rotary club's Bertie the Bus, throwing wet sponges at the Scout leaders and a Kiddie Corner.

Cake and plant stalls, a tea room and barbecue will be set up on the day.

A raffle has tickets on sale at Morrison's supermarket, Keighley, and from members of the gala committee. Three cash prizes and vouchers are up for grabs.

Mr Baldwin said he would welcome more volunteers to help out. For more information or to obtain raffle tickets call (01535) 603790.