Crowds flock to Riddlesden Gala as the sun shines (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Crowds flock to Riddlesden Gala as the sun shines

8:00am Monday 13th June 2011 in Riddlesden By Ben Barnett

Riddlesden Gala on Saturday was hailed as a huge success.

Chairman Geoffrey Baldwin said it was among the best supported in years.

“It was a fantastic day,” he said. “The weather was good and the turnout at the field was excellent.”

The gala began with a procession, led by jazz band The Peace Artistes. The William Oldfield Memorial Trophy for the best walking group went to Bramble Hedge Pre-school.

Attractions at the field – in the grounds of Riddlesden St Mary’s Primary School – included a bouncy castle, inflatable slide, model train rides, a roundabout, archery, sideshows, games and stalls.

Performances were given by The Peace Artistes, Silsden All Stars majorettes and the Rhythm King samba band.

Inside the school, pupils entertained with cheerleading and there were spots from the Keighley Amateurs Junior Singing Club and the Alley Cats line dancers.

Proceeds from the gala will go to the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.