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 townspeople to show some festive spirit, the Ilkley Independent Traders' Group is delighted with the rush of enthusiasm for Party Night on Tuesday, December 15.

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

Speaking after this week's IIT meeting, David Giddings, of The 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.

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).

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