ORGANISERS of a major annual fundraiser in aid of Manorlands are gearing-up for this year's event.

Since it started 18 years ago, the Bronte Vintage Gathering (BVG) has coined-in a massive £340,000-plus.

And the team behind the extravaganza hopes the show this year, which includes several new attractions as well as regular favourites, will be on a par with previous events.

Last year, a little more than £15,000 was raised for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

"We've got another fantastic weekend lined-up – with something for everyone," said Trish Wood, for the organisers.

"A lot of the popular attractions will be back but there are also new elements, from a different stunt team to a sheep show!

"We'll be keeping admission prices at the same level as last year.

"The support from the public has always been terrific and we would urge people to come along again to have a great time and raise money for a wonderful cause.

"Any help would be appreciated too.

"Camping and caravan spaces are available for anyone wanting to stay over."

The gathering takes place at the usual showfield venue, in Haworth Road, Cullingworth, from 10am on May 7 and 8.

Attractions in the arena will include the sheep show, Xtreme Stunt Team, terrier racing, a dog agility show and SMJ Falconry.

Hands-on entertainment across the showground will include fairground rides, a bouncy castle, slides, clay pigeon shooting and Blackpool donkey rides.

In the marquees, visitors will find a range of hand-pulled Old Spot brewery real ales and craft stalls, and there will be food and trade stands.

Among many exhibits around the field will be classic cars, commercial and military vehicles, motorcycles, miniature steam engines, tractors and organs.

On the Saturday, at 5pm, there will be a collectors' and machinery auction, followed by live entertainment in the beer tent from Wired.

And at 2pm on the Sunday, a bumper auction of donated goods takes place.

Manorlands senior fundraiser, Hayley Ibbotson, paid tribute to the BVG team.

"The Bronte Vintage Gathering is a great local event that really brings the community together to support Manorlands," she said.

"The committee of volunteers which organises the whole weekend works tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the gathering is a success and we're very grateful for its continued support.

"The committee has made a tremendous contribution to the hospice over the years, raising more than £340,000 which has supported our local services immensely.

"This support has made such a difference, helping us to provide incredible care through a range of services based at the hospice and out in the community too.

"I'd like to thank the committee for its ongoing support and hard work to raise funds for Manorlands and I'd encourage everyone to go along to support this fantastic family event."

Visit bronte-vintage-gathering.co.uk or call 01535 275535 for more details.