WORK has begun early to ensure that Skipton Gala is not lost among the many millennium celebrations taking place this year.

And it may become very hard work for the few dedicated committee members left doing all the organising after several resigned following last year's event.

The group is desperate for a treasurer after Hilary Turner left due to work commitments and for a gala queen chaperone after Maureen Dawson was forced to give up the role through ill health.

An attempt was made to book the Royal Signal Display motor-cycle display team just two days after it performed last year but to no avail. The many millennium events meant it was already busy for most of the year.

However this year's event on June 10 should not be a disappointment as organiser Glynn Beresford has booked the southern-based Medieval Combat Society and Ye Olde Red Tails falconry display team.

Mr Beresford said it was a great honour to have them as the performers did not usually perform in places more than 100 miles from home.

"They will be dressed up in period costumes and provide us with ground and aerial displays at a couple of points throughout the day," he added.

The children's favourite, Augusto's Family Circus, will also return to the gala. "We have become big friends with them. They have continually come back at our request and they have held their price for the last five years," said Mr Beresford.

The usual gala attractions are also in the process of being organised. There will be the majorette competitions, the fairground and a fireworks display.

President for the gala will again be Fred Dawson whose family has helped to organise the event for many years.

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