Runners dressed as Lego men, Roman gladiators and punks took part in the Oxenhope Straw Race yesterday.

At least 250 teams in fancy dress carried bales of straw and raced from one pub to the next, stopping for an alcoholic drink in each one and collecting sponsorship for charity on their way. Band Jail House Rock kept entrants and spectators entertained by singing Elvis songs throughout the day. Jane Barrett, secretary of the organising committee, said: “It has been phenomenal. A large crowd turned out to watch. The weather was kind to us and I am really pleased with how things have gone. ”

Galas and carnivals also took place throughout Bradford and district, with many reporting record attendance as visitors made the most of the summer sunshine.

Oakworth Gala had one of its best years to date on Saturday, with hundreds of people flocking to the event. Jackie McGinnis, vice-chairman of organisers The Village Society, said: “It was a brilliant day and the best one I have ever been to. The gala field was full of people.”

Gala queen Phoebe Hollins and her attendants Catherine Burbage-Atter and Lyla-Grace Smith led the parade to Oakworth School field where visitors enjoyed attractions including children’s races and performances by The Starlight Thumpers line dancers and The City of Bradford Pipe Band.

A procession, featuring a New Orleans-style jazz band and riders from the Northern Goldwing Club, helped get Keighley Town Gala under way on Saturday. Gala attractions in Victoria Park included a funfair and a Wild West show.

Players from Bradford Bulls, Castleford Tigers and Huddersfield Giants were on hand to meet visitors to Wrose Carnival. The event kicked-off with a parade through the streets and there were a variety of other attractions throughout the day.

Denholme Children’s Gala was also held on Saturday in Foster Park. Attractions included an Irish dance troupe, games, Denholme Primary School Samba band, fairground rides and displays by The Aire Valley Vintage Machinery Club.

The annual AllerGrange Community Fun Day was held in the Ladyhill Park, Allerton, Bradford. This year’s event coincided with the 90th anniversary of the park being bequeathed to the people of Allerton by the then Lady Hill. Sir James Hill and Lady Hill, son and daughter-in-law of the original benefactor, officially opened the event, which featured a five-a-side competition, live bands, games and children’s rides.

And The 52nd Shelf Gala, held in Shelf Park on Saturday, began with a procession from Halifax Road.