BUMPER crowds and sunshine turned out to support Otley's big carnival this weekend.

The parade was cheered on by smiling faces lining the streets as it set off from Wharfedale Farmers Auction Mart yesterday and wound its way through the town centre down to the show field at Bridge End.

A collection of floats,walking tableaux and vehicles - as well as Tour de France inspired cyclists - took part as the town crier and a pipe band led the way.

This year's themes had stretched imaginations from Disney favourites to garden gnomes, Star Wars and a nod to the 100th anniversary of the start of World War I.

Down on the show field attractions included sheepdogs trying to control geese and ducks, there were donkey rides, Sumo wrestling, bungee run and an assault course - as well as all the usual children's fairground rides and tempting food on offer.

Carnival committee treasurer Ann Steval said: "It was a non-stop stream of people coming on to the show field it felt like the whole population of Otley had turned out - as well as others. We had a wonderful day and were blessed with sunshine that was a just reward for all the hard work that organisers have put in!"

Proceeds will go to Otley Action for Older People, Otley Children's Centre and the Yorkshire Aire Ambulance.

Meanwhile in Bradford, visitors to Bolling Hall got a taste of what life was like during the War of the Roses when Frei Compagnie, a mediaeval re-enactment group, set up camp in the grounds - armoured knights fighting in the gardens, guns being fired, falconry displays, food and hurdygurdy music were among the sights and sounds over the weekend.