GLOWING tribute has been paid to the organisers of an annual event which raised a staggering £30,000-plus for Manorlands.

The chuffed team behind the Bronte Vintage Gathering (BVG) announced last week that this year's extravaganza had coined-in a record £30,440.

Hayley Ibbotson, senior community fundraiser at the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice, describes the amount as "staggering".

And she adds: "It was only made possible thanks to the hard work of volunteers who ensure the event happens.

"Much of their effort goes in behind the scenes well before the weekend to make it such a success.

"To not only match, but beat, last year's record sum is a fantastic achievement.

"It is hard to fully explain the difference a donation of this magnitude makes.

"The organising committee should be extremely proud knowing that patients and their families in the local community are able to have access to the incredible care Manorlands provides, thanks to the team's hard work and enthusiasm."

A huge array of activities was held over two days last month, at the BVG showfield in Haworth Road, Cullingworth.

There was a combination of old favourites and new attractions.

Making its debut at the BVG was the Stannage family stunt team, which performed in the arena both days.

SMJ Falconry returned and there was a dog and sheep show, terrier racing and dog agility.

Children's entertainment included go-karts, quad bikes, a bouncy castle, slides and donkey rides.

There was a shooting range, archery, a clay pigeon shoot and funfair.

Visitors could enjoy an Old Spot beer tent, food and trade stands and a craft marquee.

Police and a fire engine were present.

Exhibits around the showfield included classic cars, commercial and military vehicles, motorcycles, stationary engines and tractors.

A Spitfire performed a fly-past on the Saturday.

A collectors' and machinery auction was held that afternoon and there was free, live music at night.

And an auction of donated goods took place on the Sunday afternoon.

Trish Wood, for the organising team, said the final total from the event was "unbelievable".

"We had hoped to get close to the £29,000 raised last year but to surpass that was beyond our wildest dreams," she added.

Since it was first staged nearly two decades ago, the BVG has over the years raised more than £300,000 for Manorlands.

The organising group's next event is harness racing on July 30.

The first race will be at 2pm.

There will be an Old Spot beer tent and a cake stall.

For more details, go to the BVG Facebook page.