The annual Emergency Services Show in Birkenshaw attracted some 9,000 visitors.

Held beneath blue skies in the grounds of the West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Services headquarters, every emergency vehicle possible was on display.

And on sunny Saturday afternoon, the only chances of a soaking came from a friendly squirt of water from playbus Freddie the Fire Engine as it ferried children around the site, or a fall from the charity ducking stool.

Bradford Lord Mayor Councillor Joanne Dodds was among the throng and said she was a regular visitor to the popular show.

"It's always a wonderful day and I've come along for the last few years," Cllr Dodds said.

"People come for miles around and it's great because all the emergency services are represented here, showcasing what they do.

"They really engage with everyone, especially children and it's educational as well as being a lot of fun," she said.

At every turn there was the chance to clamber into police cars, fire engines and even onto inflatable rescue boats.

The Environment Agency was also present, displaying kit used to clean up ecological problems, including a robot used to investigated tunnels and pipework.

One of the main attractions for the many children was the chance to dress up in at the services different exhibition stalls.

But while many were trying on little police uniforms or mini firefighters' helmets the biggest queue of youngsters was for the chance to bash a truncheon on a riot shield held by a fully-armoured officer - who dutifully tumbled to the ground after three swipes by a five-year-old.

Those with a head for heights were able to tackle a climbing tower manned by the Yorkshire (North and West) Army Cadets and three huge bouncy castles, funfair rides and roundabouts filled a large grass area at the bottom of the site.

Near the HQ building itself, young archers got the chance to test their skill at the Nova Bowmen Archery Club's special range.After working up a hunger, there were plenty of up-market food stalls offering everything from crepes to curry or gourmet burgers of of every type.

YFRS station manager for strategic development Matthew Goodall was responsible for organising the event and explained its purpose:

"Of course it is about having fun, and it's a great day for all the visitors, including the many volunteers who come to to help and also the families of firefighters and other services.

"And we've certainly had a lovely day for it as well.

"But importantly, this is a day for all the emergency services to engage with the community and show what we're all about.

"And there's a wide range of services here, it's not just about the three 'blue light' responders, it shows how we all work together and gives people the big family picture," Mr Goodall said.

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