TWO Bradford City stars were among the large crowds at a village gala.

Goalkeeper Colin Doyle and team captain Romain Vincelot spoke with young fans on the Meningitis Now stand at the event in East Morton.

Proceeds from this year’s event are being split between Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands and Liam’s Smiles, a charity set-up by Doyle – who lives in East Morton – after his son Liam contracted meningitis aged just seven weeks.

Crowds turned out in massive numbers for Sunday’s event, with the procession said to be one of the biggest ever.

“It was an absolutely fantastic day,” said gala committee chairman, Kirstie Talbot.

“We don’t know yet how much was raised but it could well be a record amount.

“I’ve never seen the field so busy and people were there right until the end of the afternoon.

“We’ve had so much positive feedback, it’s been quite overwhelming.

“There was a tremendous atmosphere and of course the brilliant weather helped.

"We only have a small committee but everyone worked extremely hard to help ensure the event was a success and I'd like to pay special tribute to them.

"A huge thanks also go to everybody who gave their support and helped in any way and to all those who came along.

"The day couldn't have gone any better."

The procession, led by the City of Leeds Pipe Band, set off from Sunnydale Park and made its way to the gala field.

It included Gala Queen Jessica Pronger, 15, a pupil at Bingley Grammar School, with her attendants – Annabelle Berrisford, Martha Hopla and Naomi Richardson, all pupils at East Morton Primary, and Lily Throupe, who attends Crossflatts Primary.

Other schoolchildren and community groups were among those who also paraded.

Attractions at the gala – which this year had a British Summertime theme – included stalls, games, crafts, sand art, face painting, inflatables, a bouncy castle, ponies, archery and a coconut shy.

There was music from the pipe band and entertainment from Jennifer's Dance Kool.

The packed programme also included a baby fancy dress contest, dog show and well-supported two-mile fell race, which was won by 13-year-old Alex Thompson in 13 minutes 27 seconds.

East Morton Primary School choir also performed.

A barbecue and a bar were staged and the WI served teas and cakes at the institute building.