Ilkley'S independent traders are confident of beating the festive 'blues' following a good response to their plea for the town to wake up and party.

Less than a fortnight after urging Olicanians to show some festive spirit, the Ilkley Independent Traders Group is delighted with the rush of enthusiasm for Party Night on December 15.

There will be an opportunity to enjoy some late night shopping, enjoy the town's Christmas lights and enter into the party spirit.

Speaking after Monday evening's IIT meeting, David Giddings of Grove-based Opulent Designs, said members were very pleased their appeal for entertainment had been answered. "The Lions, Round Table and Scouts are just a few of the organisations who have come forward to the support the event," he said.

He pointed to Ilkley's 'neighbour' Otley, stating how the town's Victorian Fayre had an important place in the calendar.

"Otley has always had a good evening and we want to make sure Ilkley has something which becomes firmly established as we move towards to the millennium," he said.

He said the Party Night was an ideal opportunity for Ilkley residents to have some fun in the run up to Christmas.

"I would urge people once again to support this event. Come on Ilkley, let's really make a night of this," he said.

Coun Alec Henderson (Con, Ben Rhydding), chairman of Ilkley Parish Council said there was no reason why Ilkley should not have its own festive success story. "I am in favour of anything which promotes and encourages people to enjoy this town," he said.

Mr Giddings said the November meeting of the Group had been very successful, with several possible new members taking an interest.

"The Independent Traders Group want to promote this town and we would be delighted to hear from potential new members - traders, businessmen and women," he said.

Mr Giddings said those wanting to take advantage of Party Night by car could do so, following Bradford Council's decision to offer free parking on certain nights (including December 15).

The car parks in South Hawksworth Street and Railway Road will be free of charge from noon on December 8, 15 and 22 (Tuesdays) and December 9 and 16 (Wednesdays). The same applies on November 29, December 6, 13 and 20 (Sundays).

Councillor Phil Thornton, chairman of the Council's highways sub committee, said: "Offering free parking during the festive season is a gesture of goodwill to coincide with the late night and Sunday openings, as well as Saturday shopping in some areas. We hope this will make life easier for both traders and shoppers across the district."

The IIT social event takes place at Browns Wine Bar and Restaurant on December 7. The next IIT meeting takes place on Tuesday January 19 in Broadbents (above Opulenet Designs) between 6pm and 7.30pm.

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