ORGANISERS of East Morton Gala have hailed the event as a huge success.

Villagers turned out in numbers to support the annual extravaganza, held yesterday.

"It was a very good day – we're extremely pleased with how it went," said Kirstie Talbot, chairman of the gala committee.

"We were lucky with the weather and had a good attendance on the field throughout the afternoon.

"Families were picnicking and it was noticeable this year that people stayed longer than normal.

"There is a lot of hard work goes into organising the event and it's only a small committee, but we've received some excellent feedback and are grateful for people's support."

The gala – which took as its theme the centenary of peace celebrations in the village – began as normal with the procession, led by the City of Leeds Pipe Band.

Among those taking part were the primary school, uniformed groups, the St Luke's Church choir, the Calverley Chasers Flyball Club and gala queen Rachel Cowen with her attendants Beau Lillie, Lois Sonley, Polly Knight and Scarlett Senior, as well as the retiring queen.

The procession made its way through the village to the recreation ground, where there was a host of activities and attractions.

There was the usual range of stalls, a barbecue, face painting, inflatables, food, races and a bar.

Among the performers were choirs – including Voices of Yorkshire – the pipe band and Jennifer's Dancekool.

And there was dog agility with the Calverley Chasers.

Visitors also had the chance to recycle their waste as part of an initiative to reduce plastic in the village.

Recycling bins – supplied by Bradford Council – were available at the event for people to dispose of plastic bottles, glass, cans and paper.

The gala committee was backed in the venture by Plastic Free East Morton, which was raising awareness on the day.

Proceeds from the gala are donated to various charities and good causes.

The main chosen charity this year is Martin House children's hospice at Boston Spa, and the remainder will be split between village organisations.