WORRIES over the future of the Darwen Gala have been banished after a new committee was formed and a date set for 2016.

The former committee, which organised the annual civic event that celebrated its 50th anniversary this year, made the difficult decision to disband last month.

That put the event – one of the town’s biggest – in jeopardy.

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But now a new set of volunteers have come together to save the gala, which is now set to take place on August 20 next year.

Sunnyhurst councillor Brian Taylor added: “I am really pleased that we have some new, young and enthusiastic members on the committee now with fresh ideas.

“I’m really hopeful for the future of the gala and I intend to help the committee any way I can.

“I’m pleased people have stepped up because I could not have really taken on an officers role because I’m too busy.

“The event raises lots of money for charities and it has a lot of good influence on the town.

“The gala will continue to be aimed at younger people more so we can pass it on to the next generation, which is so important.”

Last week, six new committee members were appointed consisting of Peta Davies, Katie Howarth, Joanne Jones, Kirsty Wadman, Dorothy Bagnall and Ashley Clydesdale. Other people who stepped into active roles were Scott Barber, Sharon Craven, Alison Barber and EJ Bolan.

In previous years, the event has involved a race to Darwen Tower, a central arena filled with a variety of performances, a fun fair and plenty of stalls run by local businesses, pubs, charities and groups and next year looks set to involve these classics and even more.

The parade is set to continue going from The Anchor pub and everyone was in agreement on the committee about possibly booking Pop Up Princesses.

Mr Bolan has planned to re-design the Gala website and the Darwen Running Group wish to continue with the fell run, with Bold Venture Park Scouts marshalling.

The main stage should cost around £800 and there will be entertainment for all ages, including the possibility of a local presenter being involved in the event.

The next proposed committee meeting for the handover is Thursday, November 12, and the next meeting for the planning of the gala will be Wednesday, November 18.

Darwen Gala is an annual event for both Darreners and visitors to the area.

The event is situated on the Borough Road playing fields and around the Bold Venture Park gates.

The popular gala features races to Darwen Tower, a central arena filled with a variety of performances, the fun fair and stalls run by businesses, pubs, charities and groups that are situated in the area.