BINGLEY’S second canal festival was a huge success, despite the date coinciding with the royal wedding and the FA Cup final.

Crowds flocked to the markets and entertainment in the town centre after seeing all the activities taking place along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal earlier on Saturday.

The event had been organised by former Bingley town councillor Michelle Chapman and Marcia Churley of Shipley Area Co-ordinators Office.

“It has been brilliant, perfect,” said Mrs Chapman.

“The weather couldn’t have been better and we have been busy all day.

“The arts centre screened the royal wedding. A lot of people watching it got quite emotional.

“Most people went along to events at the canal first of all. There were events such as free boat trips, organised by the Joint Activities and Motor Education Services and a canoe trail and lessons organised by Desmond Canoe Trail.”

The RNLI and the fire service was on hand and people watched the Kennett narrow boat, a floating museum, negotiating the Three Rise and Five Rise Locks.

“This went on most of the morning and then people came along to the outdoor and indoor market.

“There has been a steady stream of people all day and it’s been really busy,” said Mrs Chapman.

“We have had every kind of food and refreshments stall imaginable and every charity stall you can think of. There have been children’s activities going on all day and people have just been able to enjoy themselves.

“It has taken about eight months to plan and people have asked that we do one each year.

“It is purely a community event. We haven’t made any money and have just broken even.

“It was never about raising money, just putting on an event that everyone could come and enjoy.”

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Music and entertainment included singing from 3pm with the All Together Now choir.

People were able to buy refreshments from the stalls and enjoy a picnic in the landscaped area outside the arts centre while youngsters played on bouncy castles and slides.

Bingley Town Council had a stall in the art centre promoting the work it does for the town. There were also two walks on offer from the Buttercross and the railway station.

The last canal event in Bingley was two years ago to celebrate 200 years of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.