This year's Keighley Gala could be the last unless the event gets more support.

The warning was issued this week by organisers of the annual charity extravaganza, which is being held next Saturday .

Chairman Brian Hudson said a lack of new members on the committee was putting the event in jeopardy. Last year the event celebrated its 125th anniversary.

He added that entertainment at the Victoria Park venue next weekend had been scaled down to concentrate efforts on the procession. There will be the usual stalls, funfair and a fireworks finale at dusk, plus a majorettes competition. But no professional performers will be brought in.

For the first time, admission to the event will be free.

Mr Hudson, pictured, said: "This is a critical time for the gala. There are only eight of us left on the committee and we are not getting any younger. Someone will have to come forward with new ideas.

"We are not charging an entry fee to the park, but there will be collection buckets there and tins along the procession route -- plus a payment from the funfair -- so we hope to still have money to give away to local charities. "

The gala procession will be starting as normal from Malsis Road at 2pm, but the road will be closed to non-gala traffic from around 11am.

Diversions will be in place during the procession. And due to the current closure of Oakworth Road extra signs will be provided to help motorists.

The day's programme will not include the crowning of the Gala Queen, which instead took place in June to coincide with the Queen's Golden Jubilee celebrations.

But the Gala Queen -- Victoria McGuinness -- and her retinue will be travelling in the procession, and will then visit Airedale Hospital to chat to patients.

Full details of the gala procession route will appear in next week's Keighley News.

Any organisations wishing to take part in the procession can still do so by contacting Jason Patefield on 01535 676184. Anyone wishing to get involved should contact Mr Hudson on 01535 604379 or 07774 946394.