CONGRATULATIONS to everyone who played their part in organising a fantastic 1999 Ilkley carnival.

Shame on all those who could not be bothered to pay a measly couple of pounds to enjoy the occasion. Miggy Bailey and the carnival committee put in months of preparation to make sure everything was right on the big day.

Glorious weather brought the crowds flocking to Ilkley and the vast majority entered into the carnival spirit. How disgusting that people should resent having to pay for a day out. Many alternative Bank Holiday attractions cost a great deal more than £2 (£1 for children).

Would people actively try and 'leap the fence' at Alton Towers, Flamingo Land or Lightwater Valley? What is the matter with these people? Surely they cannot object to Ilkley Carnival being 'too expensive.' Hopefully, the vast majority of those who did not pay were too young to know better. Sadly, it is unlikely.

On a scorching day such as Monday, there is always going to be a certain amount of irritation at having to queue. However, without introducing turnstiles and staggering the times people are allowed in, patience is the only answer.

Yorkshire people have a reputation of being 'careful' with money but refusing to part with a couple of pounds is ridiculous. Hopefully, most Olicanians did pay their entrance fee and contributed to the various tins and collection boxes being rattled in their direction.

With such a fantastic number attending the event we must keep our fingers crossed that numerous charities and organisations will soon be celebrating cash boosts.

Let us hope next year is even hotter and skinflint-free.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.