CROWDS turned out in force for Silsden Gala.

People of all ages lined Kirkgate and Bolton Road as the procession, featuring 30 entries of walking groups and floats, made its way through the town.

And there was a good attendance at the gala field, where a wide range of attractions was on offer.

But organisers have revealed that despite the turnout, the collection of £667.45 – taken in lieu of charging an entrance fee – was "well down" on previous galas, and the event will have made a loss for the first time in many years.

However, the organising team is not despondent.

"The parade route was filled with cheering townsfolk and despite blustery conditions almost all of the booked exhibitors at the gala field attended," said a spokesperson. "The event was a great, fun day.

"Unfortunately – due to the condition of the field – it was not possible to have the larger funfair rides which are usually in evidence, although the gala team managed to get a higher number of small rides for younger children, plus the very popular climbing wall. And this year there was the added attraction of birds of prey, which were also very popular.

"Performances were given in the main arena by Accrington Pipe Band and Steeton Male Voice Choir, including some numbers performed jointly by both the band and choir.

"And in the small arena demonstrations were given by Silsden Storm and Stormettes, Silsden All Stars and Fusion Extreme, which were followed by the very popular dog show fronted by Adam Harper.

"Also, Cobbydale Forge held a 'get fit' competition between two teams, which performed various tasks in a race to the line to close events in the main arena."

The future of Silsden Gala, which has existed in some form for over a century, had been thrown into jeopardy due to a lack of volunteers.

But following a plea by organisers earlier this year, 18 new members attended the gala annual general meeting.

At the meeting, David Rushworth was elected chair, and Gwendda Greaves and Sally Scales were re-elected as treasurer and secretary respectively.

The AGM – held at St James' Church community hall, in Silsden – was followed by an ordinary meeting, when retiring chair Duncan Turner outlined requirements for staging the event and planning began.

For further information about Silsden Gala or to get involved, visit facebook.com/SilsdenGalaTeam or email silsdengala@gmail.com.