A VILLAGE is preparing to bring back its annual gala after a 10-year absence in a bid to boost local pride.

Thornton Gala has not been held for over a decade, but plans are under way to bring it back in the summer of 2018.

Organisers hope it will create a swell of community spirit after a number of high profile incidents in recent weeks – including two shootings – brought unwelcome attention to Thornton.

Although in the early stages, organisers are meeting next week to plan the festival, and will speak to local businesses and residents to try to get support.

Next year will be a big year for Thornton, when it celebrates 200 years since writer Emily Bronte was born in the village.

The gala used to be one of the highlights of the Thornton Calendar, and Jonny Noble, who lives in the village, said the aim is to create an event the whole community can get involved in. It will be held on July 21.

Mr Noble said: “We’ll be asking people for ideas about what they want to see at the festival early next year. We’ve already started speaking to businesses about possible sponsorship.”

Earlier this year, a new market was held in the village, and Mr Noble said that its success showed people in the area were eager to support local events. He added: “We’re looking for ways to restore people’s confidence in the village, to remind them that it is a great place to live. There will be music, food from local producers, drinks from local bars and children’s activities.”

Councillor Richard Dunbar, who represents Thornton, said: “After hearing many stories about the Thornton Gala and what an event it was in the local community in years gone by, I met with a group of local residents and we have decided to resurrect it. There will be a stage showcasing the talented musicians and vocalists we have in the area, lots of local businesses showcasing their great products and local community groups displaying the different activities they have on offer. This is going to be a big event for the village and I would urge anyone wanting to get involved to get in touch.

“Recent events have rightly caused concern in the local community, but we have come together to work with the police and others to say very clearly to those who seek to cause trouble and uncertainty that we won’t accept it and they will not win. Thornton is a great place with lots of great history and a great community spirit. The Thornton Gala will show our community at its best, people coming together and enjoying everything that is good about our area.”