A medieval fair is set to raise Bingley's spirits after the cancellation of the town's show and gala.

The fun day at St Ives estate, near Harden, on August 11 from 1pm to 4pm, will feature an array of authentic customs from the Middle Ages, including jesters, jugglers and jousting.

Town centre manager David Dinsey said the free event, organised by Bradford Council, was a major boost for Bingley's summer calendar.

"This year we haven't had the children's gala and unfortunately we've also lost the show," he said.

"Hopefully as many people as possible from the town and surrounding areas will come along and make it a successful, fun event."

The children's gala, which had been an annual event in the town since 1948, was cancelled last year because of the foot-and-mouth epidemic and called off this year because of lack of support.

The gala's chairman, Martin Hempel, a partner of Laycock Spice Merchants in Keighley, said there was not enough manpower to run the popular fun day.

"It's a shame but as we all know these days it's difficult getting people to help run these events as everyone has so much on," he said.

"If people come forward to support it, maybe it will be up and running next year."

The Bingley Show was called off last week after an access row with residents in Aireview Avenue.

Better Bingley Campaign chairman Keith Yardley said he hoped residents would support the medieval fair.

"It will be of benefit to the whole of Bingley as it has come at a time when people are feeling frustrated with the lack of progress with a number of things, such as the cancelled show," he said.

And Councillor David Heseltine (Con, Bingley) said St Ives, off Harden Road, was the perfect setting and the 'jewel in Bingley's crown'.

"It's a shame we couldn't see the Bingley show saved but no doubt the medieval fair will make up for it," he said.

Visitors will be able to test their skills with a longbow with the Aire Valley Archers and watch a medieval jousting show by the Company of Horsemen in an open-air theatre.

Other attractions will include the Hawk Experience Falconry Demonstration featuring hawks, falcons, owls and an eagle.

There will be free parking on site.

For further information telephone (01274) 432685.