A dazzling carnival parade – inspired by a town’s confectionery industry – was a highlight of Cleckheaton Folk Festival.

Led by school children and young dancers, it swirled through the streets of Cleckheaton on Saturday in honour of traditional goods made in in the town, such as Fentiman’s fizzy pop and Lion sweets. Now in its 32nd year, the folk festival is the biggest date on the town’s cultural calendar, and attracted thousands of visitors over the weekend at 12 venues, to see some of the UK’s top folk artists. The parade was produced by Creative Scene and presented by Callaloo Carnival Arts, working with students from Howard Park Community School and the Sarah Sutton School of Performing Arts.

Emerging folk artists also performed at the event, after attending a folk masterclass, thanks to funding from Creative Scene.

Bev Adams, associate producer for Creative Scene, said: “We had a brilliant day and a great crowd with almost 2,000 people watching the parade.

“It was fabulous to see so many youngsters being a part of it.

“The parade was inspired by Cleckheaton born artist Edward Wadsworth’s dazzle camouflage work and also by some of the main historic manufacturers in Cleckheaton, such as Fentiman’s fizzy drinks and Lyon’s sweets.

“Through the event we shared the stories of Cleckheaton folk who have built creative businesses here.”

Creative Scene and Cleckheaton Folk Festival also offered a folk masterclass to emerging musicians in the area.

Paul Sartin, of award-winning band, Bellowhead, worked with a group of six people, teaching the secrets to a successful career in folk music and offering invaluable feedback on their performance.

The emerging artists performed at the festival’s opening night following their masterclass.

Ms Adams, of Creative Scene, added: “They learned how to tell the story in a folk song, how to use the best techniques and why storytelling is key.”

Headliners for the Folk Festival included John Boden and The Remnant Kings, Daphne’s Flight, the London Philharmonic Skiffle Orchestra and many more.

As well as ticketed gigs, there were plenty of free activities over the weekend, including a street market, workshops, poetry, open mic session and other performances.

David Minich, festival director, said: “It was a great success. We have seen some fantastic artists this year thanks to Arts Council funding and an action-packed festival with lots of fringe performers.

“We have had visitors from abroad who come to see one of the best folk festivals in the UK.

Nancy Barrett, director of Creative Scene, which brings arts and culture to North Kirklees, said: “We are delighted to once again support Cleckheaton Folk Festival and help introduce a new generation to folk music.”