A sudden bout of wet weather failed to halt festivities for hundreds of people in Riddlesden.

The village’s latest gala included a procession and an afternoon of entertainment at Riddlesden St Mary’s Primary School.

The procession began from the Marquis of Granby pub at 1pm and was led by the City of Bradford Pipe Band. It also featured members of the Silsden All Stars Dance Troupe along with samba performers from Riddlesden St Mary’s School and the Jamba Samba band.

Gala chairman, Geoffrey Baldwin, said: “The procession route was a bit shorter than last year but it was in fine weather - we got away with that. As soon as we got to the school field the heavens opened.

“We did have an alternative wet weather plan, so we moved some of the entertainment indoors into the school.

“As many people as could do squeezed inside but some carried on enjoying the roundabouts out in the rain and didn’t seem too bothered.

“A bit later the weather did clear up and people went out into the field again as if nothing had happened. It could have been a lot worse. Everybody pulled together and made it a great day.

“On a personal note I’d like to thank everyone who helped make it such a success in the circumstances.”

He said about 800 people were present on the field and he estimated the gala raised more than £1,000.

Last Saturday’s event was raising money for the Salvation Army Christmas toy appeal.