THOUSANDS of people flocked to the Bradford Dragon Boat Festival for a three-day event that proved to be a resounding success.

The eagerly-anticipated event returned to Roberts Park, Saltaire, over the weekend, with supporters from the district and beyond spectating from the banks of the River Aire.

More than 2,000 participants from 100 teams braved the river for the event and people flocked to the park to show support and revel in the good weather.

John Galt, head organiser of the event, spoke to the Telegraph & Argus about the busy scenes and how the superb turnout had made all the hard work worthwhile.

Mr Galt said the festival site was "rammed" with people, adding that the event was very busy on Sunday afternoon.

“Everybody seemed to be enjoying themselves and having fun and this is really good for Bradford.

“We’ve had a lot of teams participating in the race and everyone was excited.”

When asked to describe the turnout on Sunday, July 3, the last day of the event, Mr Galt said: “If you were looking for a patch of grass, the chances are you wouldn’t find one. It was ram packed.”

“Without the support of the volunteers and the traders this wouldn’t be possible and I’m so glad we are all passionate about this.

“We’ve been working hard, stupid hours, waking up early and going to bed really late only to be waking up early again.

“We’re doing what we can to make this happen.

“This festival was used as part of the City of Culture bid and I know that it’s going to do amazing things for Bradford.”