A new partnership has been launched to help secure the future of Knaresborough’s free community events and boost activity across the town’s high street.
Eventure Knaresborough, led by Chain Lane Community Hub, has been created with support from David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, and funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority through the Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund.
The initiative brings together a range of local organisations, including Knaresborough Town Council, Knaresborough Rotary, FEVA, and the Knaresborough Lions, to preserve the town’s long-standing traditions and develop new community events.
Charlotte McEvoy, Community Empowerment Manager at Chain Lane Community Hub, said:
“We are incredibly grateful for the recognition and investment from Mayor David Skaith and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. Knaresborough’s free public events are more than just celebrations—they are vital to our local economy, our sense of place, and our community spirit.
"Although these events are free to attend, the costs to organise and deliver them continue to rise. Through this partnership, we’re not only safeguarding these cherished traditions but actively seeking new sponsorship opportunities to ensure their future and expand what we can offer to the community.
"The new event fund will also enable fresh ideas to flourish, with organisers supported by experienced event leaders and community experts on our steering group.”
The partnership aims to help event organisers manage rising costs, meet changing safety requirements, and adapt to increasing visitor numbers while keeping events free and accessible.
Steering group members include Yorkshire CREATE, Inspire Youth Yorkshire, FEVA, Knaresborough Lions, Knaresborough Town Council, Knaresborough District Chamber of Trade, Knaresborough Museum Association, Knaresborough Connectors, Knaresborough Rotary, Knaresborough Revolution, and independent resident Martin Davis.
Charlotte McEvoy said:
“This investment allows us to look to the future with confidence.
“Some of our events attract tens of thousands of people, bringing life to our town and vital trade to our businesses. We’re incredibly proud of Knaresborough and the traditions that make it so special.
"Our intention is to enable the high street to thrive, strengthen our community connections, and secure these events for future generations.”
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:
“High streets are constantly changing, but they have, and always will be, hubs for our communities.
"That's why I'm backing community led projects across York and North Yorkshire, like Eventure Knaresborough, which will improve and expand Knaresborough’s free events by enhancing existing offerings, fostering new partnerships, and driving sustained footfall and economic development.
"Residents and businesses understand most what is needed in their communities, and I am proud to be backing their plans with my £10m Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund.”

Lightwater Valley reveals reopening date
Harrogate teachers brave blizzard conditions in latest running challenge
Conservative councillors take swipes at Reform amid budget talks
Date revealed for Knaresborough Tractor Run
Yorkshire Air Ambulance appoints new CEO
Council to increase council tax by maximum after £43m "wallop" from government
Harrogate dad takes on 40,000-mile yacht race for bereavement charity
Harrogate BID backs return of town's popular Restaurant Week
Cost of Harrogate garden bin licence revealed
Spirit of Harrogate to enter administration
Call for council to support pubs and hospitality businesses
Ripon MP says Kex Gill realignment scheme is making 'good progress'
Northern Powergrid issue update on Leeds Road traffic lights
Sir Stephen Fry sends mental health message to Harrogate College students
Harrogate Cat Rescue appeals for urgent support as vet bills soar
Cuts may be needed to balance budget at North Yorkshire Police
Harrogate BID unveils full programme for town's Self Care Week
Pateley hit-and-run: Man charged with two further offences
Opinions sought on new specialist autism school in Harrogate
Harrogate MP sparks Parliamentary debate on water bosses flouting bonus ban


