KEIGHLEY Show last year made a loss of about £7,000, organisers have revealed.

The show society's annual general meeting heard that torrential rain had hit the number of visitors to the Marley event.

But chairman William Mitchell said the shortfall could have been considerably worse.

"The showfield looked excellent in the morning but unfortunately the rain had an adverse effect on the numbers attending from lunchtime onwards," he said.

"Due to the reduced crowds the show did incur a loss – which was very disappointing after the success of the 2015 event – but a number of fundraising activities during the year and continued support from a large number of sponsors helped to offset what could have been a much greater deficit.

"It is important we endeavour to make this year's show the best yet and hope for good weather."

Retiring president Chris Herd thanked everyone for their support and said he had enjoyed last year's show, despite the weather.

He was presented with a photograph album as a memento of his day.

This year's president is Keighley funeral director David Gallagher, a supporter of the show's horticulture section for many years.

And president elect is Mrs Katrina Thackray, who recently retired as show secretary after many years' service.

Mr Mitchell was re-elected chairman, Abby Marsh secretary and Will Twigg treasurer.

Despite the loss, members agreed that admission prices for this year's show – on September 2 – should be held at £8 for adults and £5 concessions, with free parking.

Cut-price advance tickets can be ordered, at £6 for adults and £4 concessions, through the show website or can be bought from various outlets during August.

The show team is also keen to recruit new supporters.

Annual subscriptions are available which cover entry to the show and allow parking on the showground upper level – subject to availability – and use of members' private bar facilities, with seating, alongside the main ring. Members are also able to attend the president's official luncheon on the day, at an additional cost, and the society annual general meeting.

A range of sponsorship packages is available and organisers would like to hear from any volunteers interested in joining the management committee or helping out on the day.

For more details, visit keighleyshow.co.uk, e-mail secretary@keighleyshow.co.uk or call 01535 930459.

Trade stand enquiries can be made via the website, on tradestands@keighley.show.co.uk or 07916 434088.