LAST year's Keighley Show was a record breaker.

Organisers have revealed that an unprecedented £15,500 was taken at the gate.

Thousands of people flocked to the Marley showground for the event, in September.

At the Keighley & District Agricultural Show Society annual general meeting, chairman William Mitchell thanked everyone for their "continued hard work" in making the show a success.

And tribute was paid to Keighley Town Council for its sponsorship of £5,000.

"This was invaluable – together with all the other support and year-round fundraising activities that took place," said Mr Mitchell.

"The final accounts for the year show a slightly improved profit, which has helped to strengthen reserves.

"We can look forward with confidence to organising this year’s event – due to be held on Saturday, September 7 – but still need support through fundraising, sponsorship and donations to pull together the £40,000-plus needed to stage a show each year."

Retiring president, Katrina Thackray, thanked everyone for their support during the year – and throughout the previous 12 months, when she was president elect.

She said: "I thoroughly enjoyed my time as president, and in particular the very successful show day.

"However, the balance sheet shows that we cannot afford to be complacent. I would ask everyone to support forthcoming fundraising events and bring along new people willing to get involved."

She was presented with a photograph album as a memento of show day.

This year's president is Mike Cunningham, who has been the horticulture section secretary for the past 15 years.

He said: "I have been dabbling with dahlias for 25 years – winning my first major award with a single vase of gladiolus in the novice section at Keighley Show in 1995, aged 51.

"The judge commented that it was nice to see some young blood!"

Mr Cunningham is also an active committee member of the National Dahlia Society and secretary of its northern committee, and treasurer/secretary of the North of England Dahlia Association.

Lead officials of Keighley Show re-elected for this year were Mr Mitchell, secretary Abby Marsh and treasurer Will Twigg.

The society has a range of sponsorship opportunities available, starting from £25. Benefits include admission to the hospitality area, with a bar, toilets and seating alongside the main ring.

Alternatively, donations from £5 can be made online.

Show organisers are also keen to hear from any volunteers interested in joining the management committee, or helping out on the day.

For further information, visit keighleyshow.co.uk, e-mail secretary@keighleyshow.co.uk or call 07704 766010.