Festival will draw crowds

Preparations are underway for the event which will see Town Street transformed into a multi-cultural bazaar with hot food tasting and cooking demonstrations.

All Together Armley, working with Leeds City Council, MP Rachel Reeves, Citizens UK and other community groups and charities, is behind the festival.

Gudrun Shemilt, chair of All Together Armley, said: “Public concern hit a high last year, with the main Town Street being dominated by street drinking and anti social behaviour. The All Together Armley Committee was formed to tackle key objectives of safety, environment and community.

“The festival was decided upon to not only put on a fun day for Armley with a feel good factor, but to try and forge relationships and awareness to tackle the difficulties the area was facing, and build community cohesion. The focus of the festival will be to reclaim the Town Street with positive activity.”

Organisers expect around 3,000 people will attend the festival, which runs from midday until 4pm.

Armley Councillor Alison Lowe said: “This is an event which involves the whole community and is being led by local people who care about Armley. It’s local people coming together supported by local businesses and showing the world what Armley can do given the chance.”

Visitors can enjoy food and live music including steel bands, folk groups, classical music, school groups and rock music. Gifts will be on sale and other attractions include face painting, henna tattooing, hair styling and crafts. A performance area will feature children’s entertainers, dance groups and street performers. Armley Moor will host a funfair, sports and challenges such as a climbing wall.

To book a stall email [email protected].