ITV Emmerdale actor Sam Dingle runs bar at Saltaire Heritage Day

Crowds came in their masses to celebrate Heritage Open Day at Saltaire's Roberts Park on Saturday.

James Hooton, who has played Sam Dingle in ITV1’s Emmerdale since 1995, entertained by running his own mobile bar, Ta’Hoots.

"A lot of people did not know it was him so they will doing double takes wondering," Ian Andrews-Swailes, chair of the Saltaire Festival board, said.

James really enjoyed his day running the bar and speaking to fans (Image: Saltaire Festival)

"He did a few selfies and got into it. He was there for 12 hours and had a nice day.

"Now he is thinking of doing more festivals in the future."

The park’s promenade area was taken over by stalls selling craft goods and vintage clothing among others.

Live music was played in the park’s bandstand from 10am to 9pm, which was organised by Bren Travis, a professional music tutor in Shipley.

Over 20,000 people attended the festival (Image: Saltaire Festival)

Between 8pm and 9pm, a lantern parade, provided by Cecil Green Arts, took centre stage.

The parade was accompanied by music and followed by a fire finale, held from 9pm to 9.30pm.

Ian Andrews-Swailes, chair of the Saltaire Festival board, says over 20,000 people attended throughout the day.

He said: "It was absolutely amazing. It was such good fun. The feeling was fantastic.

"It was really good to see such a good diverse and inclusive event. It was a real nice mix of people.

Crowds loved the lanterns later in the day (Image: Saltaire Festival)

"There was torrential rain at 9am then it dried up later in the day and the sun came out so we could not have asked for any better."

Speaking to the T&A before the event, Mr Hooton, who lives in the Bradford district, said: "I'm thrilled to be involved in World Heritage Day taking place in Roberts Park.

People enjoyed the various stalls (Image: Newsquest)

“It's a great opportunity to celebrate the history and culture of our community.

"As a proud resident of Baildon, I'm excited to support local community events like this. It's a chance to connect with my neighbours and showcase the best of our area.

People from across the district enjoyed the day (Image: Saltaire Festival)

“There is a bit of something for everyone at the event and it’s targeted at local families so my family and friends are looking forward to attending.

"Running a mobile bar is one of my passions, and through Ta’Hoots, I'm looking forward to bringing a lively bar atmosphere to the World Heritage Day event. Come by and say hello.”