In 25th year Ilkley Bandstand enjoys memorable Easter Sunday

Thursday, 24 April 2025 19:04

An appreciative audience for the White Rose Concert Band (Photo: Jolyon West)

Musical memories on Easter Sunday marked the countdown to the Ilkley Bandstand 2025 season of entertainment in the heart of Ilkley.

The White Rose Concert Band created a fantastic atmosphere with an afternoon filled with music and sunshine.

Moo Ping Vivienne Boey, from the Ilkley Bandstand committee said:

“It was a truly moving and joyful day, one that reminded us just how special our community is. The beauty and atmosphere created at the bandstand brought smiles to so many faces, and it’s a credit to what a small, passionate committee can achieve, entirely without support from the council or large organisations.

“Our team is made up of older volunteers who have dedicated years to keeping the bandstand running, despite lacking the fundraising infrastructure of bigger charities. Complex funding applications are beyond us, and yet, we continue to keep the bandstand alive, purely through determination, community spirit, and the generosity of a small number of local sponsors.

“In 2025, the bandstand will celebrate its 25th anniversary, a Silver Jubilee that coincides with Bradford’s year as City of Culture. It’s more important than ever that we preserve and protect this town treasure for visitors and locals alike.

“Our current costs are significant, nearly £3,000 for insurance, around £600 for music licensing, and now the cost of a gardener as our committee can no longer manage the grounds.

“We would like to thank our sponsors, Tivoli Place Guesthouse; Abbeydale Residential Home; U Dentistry Ltd; Buzz Coffee; Walker Foster Solicitors; Ilkley Dental Centre; ILTSC Ltd and Yorkshire Dales Ice Cream.

“We continue to seek support and would warmly welcome any new sponsors who wish to be part of the bandstand’s future.”

To offer sponsorship please email bmsmith.ilkley@gmail.com

Updates from Ilkley Bandstand are post on the Facebook page.

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