Organisers of this year’s harness racing in aid of Manorlands Hospice breathed a big sigh of relief when the sun came out yesterday.

Rain-hit conditions on the showfield in Haworth Road, Cullingworth, last year had forced the event to be cancelled.

But after a drizzly start the sun came out in time for the first race of the day, encouraging the crowds to give their support.

The Bronte Vintage Gathering team, which organises the popular races, first held 15 years ago, said the extravaganza was a success.

The full day of harness racing started at 2pm with a licensed bar, onsite bookmakers, raffle, tombola and cake and produce stalls with funds boosted by admission fees at the gate.

The previous event, two years ago, raised about £5,000 for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice and organisers were staying hopeful this weekend’s amount might top it.

One of the organisers, Trish Wood, said: “The sun came out and we had a lovely day with a nice crowd. It’s not the biggest crowd we’ve ever had but everyone really enjoyed themselves.

“We hope we will be on par with the £5,000 we made at the last one, if not make a bit more.”