AN appeal for Olicanians to boost Ilkley Carnival by becoming a patron has not netted a single response, it has been revealed.

Miggy Bailey, the president of Ilkley Carnival, made an appeal last month for more people to become patrons of the event.

However, to Mrs Bailey's disappointment, she has not had a rush of volunteers eagerly banging on her door brandishing their respective cheque books.

"I cannot honestly say I have had one person make an inquiry about becoming a patron," she said.

"It is a bit disappointing but I suppose people have had their minds on other things, such as Christmas," she said.

More than 12,000 people attended this year's event but only a tiny fraction of those who enjoyed the day did so as patrons of the event.

The carnival president, who is already busy with the preparations for the 1999 event, believes the patron scheme offers Olicanians the chance to feel more involved and, just as importantly, make a real difference to carnival charity jackpot.

Mrs Bailey said: "As things stand at present, we only have about 20 patrons. A large number of those 20 are Ilkley parish councillors."

"What we need is for more people to make the step of becoming a patron. The Carnival committee is delighted with the generosity shown by people on the day itself but it would be nice if a few more would add their names to the patron list," she said.

Mrs Bailey said it was not a question of patrons being needed to ensure the future success of events, it was as much a gesture of support and appreciation for the annual event.

Shortly before Christmas, Mrs Bailey said: "It is very simple and doesn't necessarily mean having to donate large sums. The minimum sum is £10 and for that you do get a good deal."

Mrs Bailey said carnival patrons could enjoy one or two little extra treats on the big day itself. "You gain free entrance to the carnival field and get to enjoy afternoon in the VIP hospitality tent," she said.

"It is a valuable source of income and even if only a fraction of the thousands who turn up on the day became patrons, it would make a big difference," she said.

Mrs Bailey said the appeal was being made as the committee put the finishing touches to its charity plans for the 1999 Ilkley Carnival.

More than 11,000 was raised for the three beneficiaries of the 1998 event. As for the big day in May 1999? "We have already got two really good acts for the event and we are hoping the theme, Fashion Through The Ages, will lead to some interesting costumes," said Mrs Bailey.

"Ideas we are looking at include a Fashion Through The Ages fashion show and perhaps a prize for the most original costume," she said.

Anyone wanting to become a patron of Ilkley Carnival can contact Mrs Bailey at Ilkley Town Hall on 01943 436212.

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