The organisers of Huddersfield Carnival have put out an urgent appeal to ensure the event can celebrate its 40th anniversary this year.

The carnival returned in 2023 after an absence of five years but the organising committee needs to raise £100,000 for this year’s event to go ahead.

The committee have made a plea to “keep the vibe alive” and say if everyone who attended last year could donate just £5 the carnival would be back for 2024.

There was a carnival parade and a day-long event in Greenhead Park last July attended by an estimated 20,000 people, in what is a celebration of African and Caribbean culture.

Last year the event was supported by Kirklees Council but there will be no money from the local authority this year.

The carnival has a provisional date of July 13 in Greenhead Park and a carnival spokesman said: “The Huddersfield Carnival Management Committee planned and organised a successful Carnival 2023 attracting 20,000 people after a five-year absence.

“The parade and park event, proved to be a highly successful event with a line-up including an international artist, a BBC 1xtra DJ and a well-known comedian.

“With no financial support from Kirklees Council we are reliant on donations, grants and sponsorships.

“With all carnivals competing for the same pots of money, it’s possible funding bids won’t be successful. So far, we’ve had little feedback from companies we have reached out to for sponsorship opportunities.

“We want Huddersfield to have a carnival this year to celebrate its 40th anniversary year. To do this we need at least £100,000 and we need your help to raise funds. If the community wants a carnival we have to fund it ourselves and we need to act quickly.

“If everyone who attended last year donated £5 we would be good to go! Please pledge your commitment to donate £5 (or whatever you can afford) to ensure Huddersfield Carnival can continue.”

The spokesman added: “For the cost of a Greggs meal deal, a Costa coffee, a cinema ticket or a rum and coke you could help fund the carnival!”

To donate click HERE

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