A TRADITIONAL scout and guide festival - whose future was under threat after organisers were forced to abandon it last year - has been resurrected by volunteers.

The festival has raised thousands of pounds for scouts and guides in the Bedale area over the past thirty years, helping to fund the building of ambitious new headquarters.

But last year it was cancelled after organisers said they could not get the backing needed to stage it.

Now the community has rallied round to ensure the festival goes ahead, and they’re appealing for backing to help fund the event.

One of the organisers, Bedale town councillor Amanda Coates, said: "It was so disappointing when it was cancelled last year.

"It had been held for as long as I can remember, even during the foot and mouth outbreak, so we were determined it should go ahead this year.

“We’ve already had a lot of interest, but we are appealing for financial backers, for local businesses or individuals to sponsor events to help us make it even bigger and better.

“We want to involve as many youth organisations and local businesses as possible, as well as the army and air force.”

The festival volunteers are also campaigning to bring back floats and possibly have a rolling road closure, and are in discussions with the authorities.

A dog show will feature as part of the event which is being held in Bedale Hall park, alongside bouncy castles and entertainment for youngsters, stalls, bands, including several local brass bands, possibly a falconry display, and food including a hog roast.

Cllr Coates said for only the second time in it’s history it’s going to be held on a Sunday.

She added:“A few years ago it was held on Sunday and it was a real success, people just kept on coming all through the afternoon.

"Normally it is held on a Saturday alongside the car boot sale, but there seemed to be more interest in the Sunday and because it is a very big family event in the town that seems to be the best approach.

“It is such a traditional part of Bedale. It’s very important that we keep it going and we really want as many people to be involved as possible,” she added.

The Festival is being held on June 17, starting around 10am with a parade through the town and carrying on until late afternoon.

To sponsor an event or get involved in helping contact Cllr Coates on 07768 047001.