THE countdown is on to the official opening of Ilkley's bandstand - which will be performed by Richard Whiteley.

The television presenter will cut the ribbon on the project on September 29. The date will also mark the handover of the bandstand from the Rotary Clubs of Ilkley to a special trust, which has been set up to run it.

It will receive a substantial boost of cash from the Rotary Clubs to cover start-up and early years running costs.

Philip Chinque, spokesman for the Rotary Clubs of Ilkley, said: "There has been a lot of speculation about possible opening dates for the bandstand.

"We are pleased that the recent fine weather has helped minimise possible delays and that good progress is being made in bringing the project to fruition. We are now able to confirm the proposed date for handover and official opening"

Mr Chinque said the group was also celebrating its coup in garnering the support of a famous face.

He said: "We are extremely pleased to receive Richard Whiteley's confirmation that he will be free and willing to attend the handover and to perform the opening ceremony.

"The project committee was anxious from the outset to mark the occasion with the presence of as many prominent friends of Ilkley as possible.

"Richard is a well-know personality in his own right and also as a local resident who has a great affection for the town of Ilkley. We are glad to have him on board."

Work is well under way to complete the project. Sponsored benches are about to be delivered and dedicated, plaques and flagstones put in place and flowers and shrubs added.

A booklet, listing all the names of the patrons, is also to be drawn up and embedded in the structure of the bandstand before handover.

Ilkley Music Centre will provide inaugural music at the opening, which will commence at 2pm.