THERE are some strange guys around Gargrave - at least there will be in a few weeks time when effigies to the gunpowder, treason and plot perpetrator will blaze a trail through the village.

The village has arranged a Guy Fawkes festival to be held over the weekend of October 27 and 28 to raise money for the fireworks on Bonfire Night.

Normally the £1,000 or so needed to put on the dazzling display is raised through the annual duck race.

This year, however, the money went towards the resource centre and library extension and now the firework fund cannot stretch to as much as a sparkler.

Rebecca Roberts, of the Ewe Tree shop and member of the Gargrave Business Initiative, said the village got together and discussed how to raise the money while encouraging visitors to the village.

Trade has suffered over the past summer after footpaths were closed due to the foot and mouth crisis, and the business group has arranged several events to increase activity in the area.

"A thousand pounds is a lot to raise but we hope lots of people will collect application forms and enter a guy," said Mrs Roberts.

Entry is £1 and is open to families, shops, individual adults and children. There is to be a cash prize to the winner which will be chosen by a yet-to-be-named celebrity.

The youngsters at Gargrave School are gearing up to make guys ready for a competition trail through the village on October 27 and 28.

Visitors will be able to follow a treasure hunt type competition sheet whilst admiring the handiwork of the locals.

The following Saturday, November 3, the village bonfire will take place when all the guys will be ceremoniously placed on the fire. Live music is to be organised on the green.

Anyone interested in entering a guy can pick up an application form from Rayner's Newsagents, in Gargrave High Street.