ORGANISERS of this year's hugely successful Haworth 1940s Weekend have now collected all the charitable proceeds from the event.

They say this year's occasion raised the impressive sum of £26,000 for the Soldiers Sailors Airmen Families Association. (SSAFA)

This means the weekend has generated a grand total of £76,000 for military charities.

Part of this cash came from the sale of a striking piece of artwork commissioned by the weekend's organisers, which depicted the famous Second World War "forces sweetheart" Dame Vera Lynn.

This was designed by Haworth resident Andy Kissack in conjunction with Dame Vera's daughter Virginia, produced by artist John Francis and printed by Howard Baker.

The picture portrays Dame Vera against a backdrop of the white cliffs of Dover and St Paul's Cathedral.

Mr Kissack said: "Dame Vera signed 70 copies of the print to mark the 70th anniversary of Victory in Europe and Japan.

"She gave the 1940s Weekend her blessing, and is delighted that the sale of these prints have contributed to the £26,000 raised this year.

"They are signed and numbered and a few are still available from Nikki Carroll at Firth's Boutique in Main Street, Haworth."

People interested in buying a print can call 01535 643800 for more details.

Next year's Haworth 1940s Weekend will take place from May 13 to 15. Its theme will be "Airborne" to celebrate the Second World War Allied parachute regiments.