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Businesses and community support Ashlands Bonfire’s 40th anniversary

7 hours ago
2 min read
Ashlands firworks

Ashlands Bonfire organisers are thanking the local businesses, community groups and volunteers helping make the Ilkley tradition possible.


Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026, the annual bonfire and fireworks display takes place at Ashlands Primary School on Saturday 7 November, bringing families together for an evening of community spirit and fundraising for the school.


Building a bonfire using more than 40 tonnes of wood and delivering the fireworks display requires significant behind-the-scenes effort and support.



Whitaker Cadre is sponsoring the fireworks display, while Mediqas provides free medical cover and Alpha Security supplies security. SFS provides fencing, ServiceLoo supports event lighting, and Wetherby Tool and Plant Hire supplies matting for heavy machinery.


Kitching Plant Hire provides a free telehandler to help construct the bonfire. Silverspring Sales and Lettings also lends equipment, contributes time and services, and coordinates the collection of more than 40 tonnes of wood.


Volunteers from Friends of Ilkley Riverside Parks help prepare the site and build the bonfire, while Ilkley Carnival lends equipment to reduce costs and share resources between community events.


Ashlands bonfire

Andrew Stacey, Chair of Ilkley Carnival, said: “Community events like Ashlands Bonfire are a big part of what makes Ilkley such a great place to live. They bring people together, create memories for families and raise money for important local causes.


"Sharing equipment and supporting one another helps local events work together. We’re pleased to support Ashlands Bonfire again as it celebrates this impressive milestone.”


This community support helps reduce the cost and complexity of organising the event, ensuring more funds can go towards Ashlands Primary School and its pupils.



James Saul, from Silverspring Sales and Lettings, said: “Ashlands Bonfire is a brilliant example of what can be achieved when the local community pulls together. It takes a huge amount of wood, equipment, planning and people to make the event happen, and we’re proud to play our part in helping keep this Ilkley tradition going.


"Reaching 40 years is a fantastic milestone, and we’re delighted to continue supporting the team with the equipment, time and practical help they need to make this year’s event a success.”


The Friends of Ashlands team emphasises that the event’s success relies on months of planning, with volunteers and supporters coordinating equipment, collecting wood and preparing the site.


Ashlands Bonfire takes place on Saturday 7 November at Ashlands Primary School on Leeds Road in Ilkley. Gates open at 5.30pm, the bonfire is lit at 6.15pm and fireworks begin at 7.30pm.


 
 
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