MUSIC, fun and competitions created a carnival atmosphere in central Silsden last weekend.

Spectators lined the streets for a lively, colourful procession led by a jazz band, followed by an afternoon festivities in the park.

The gala committee chairman Mags Croft said: "It went absolutely brilliantly. We've already had reaction saying that this was the best gala ever.

"The horse and carriage for the gala queen was absolutely stunning.

"We were busy all day. There was a small shower first thing, then after that the weather was fine. The heavy rain forecast never materialised, so we were really lucky.

"For the organising we had helpers from St James Church and also from Silsden Youth Council, so we had plenty of support.

"Every penny we earn goes back towards staging next year's gala. In terms of funds it looks like we've done O.K. this year."

Music and dance performances were staged by members of the Eclipse Jazz Band, Accrington Pipe Band and Silsden All Stars Majorettes. Fitness demonstrations were held by a pair of local Zumba groups.

The gala was opened by Silsden deputy mayor Councillor Keith Savage and the 2014 gala queen, five-year-old Emily-Jane Murdoch.

Other attractions included a collection of owls brought in by Barn Owl Bill, fairground rides, children's races, a tug-of-war, a smoothie-making bike and a set of stocks where volunteers were pelted with wet sponges.

There was also a mini steam railway, refreshment stalls and balloon modelling with children's entertainer Ken Gaskell.

Silsden Gala Competition results

Procession winners: Vehicular floats 1st British Legion, 2nd Twisters Club, 3rd David Throup Tractors

Visiting Gala Queen: 1st Colne, 2nd Oakworth, 3rd Sutton

Fancy Dress: 1st Harry Hope (Astronaut) 2nd no name provided (The Incredible Hulk) 3rd Margaret Proctor (I should have danced all night)

Walking groups 1st St James Church, 2nd Silsden Majorettes 3rd Silsden Juniors

Overall winner St James Church