A combination of good weather and the introduction of equine classes helped Bingley Show to have one of its best years ever, organisers revealed today.

The total number of visitors has yet to be confirmed but it is believed more than 15,000 people turned out for the event on Saturday – potentially the highest number since 1951, when 22,000 people attended.

Show organiser Leslie Gore said he never had any doubts the day would be a success, despite moving from its traditional Sunday slot to Saturday following legal complications with the venue Myrtle Park.

“I had every confidence it would work on Saturday as long as the weather was good,” he said.

“We are still counting how many people attended but it certainly ranks up there with the top. We have every reason to believe we will equal last year’s total, if not exceed it.

“The observation on the day was it was well attended and everyone had a good time.”

Equine classes, which were re-introduced this year, pulled in the crowds and a craft exhibition, which was larger than last year and featured live demonstrations, also proved popular.

Sheep and cattle classes also enjoyed significantly increased entries and a fly past by a Lancaster Bomber was a hit with spectators.

“It was absolutely outstanding,” said Mr Gore. “All the entries were up this year, apart from one category that clashed with another event.

“The commentator Linda Ackroyd said the spectators were at least six people deep all the way around the ring at some points in the day.

“The show was scheduled to finish at 5.30pm but people were still sat in the members enclosure and around the show ring at 7pm, which gives an idea of how popular it was.

“It was a resounding success and I am in the fortunate position of having had no complaints.”

  • Read more in Wednesday’s T&A