A VILLAGE is gearing-up for its annual gala – which is making a comeback after a two-year absence due to the pandemic.

The Riddlesden Gala king and queen, and their cohort, were crowned in a ceremony at the village's United Reformed Church.

Keighley East councillor Caroline Firth, who performed the crowning, said: "It was great to see so many young people take part. Huge congratulations go to the youngsters who were chosen."

The ceremony was held as part of a coffee morning at the church, which also gave people the opportunity to meet gala committee members and drop off raffle, tombola and other prizes.

The gala takes place on Saturday, June 18.

It will begin with the procession at 1pm from a new venue – the Applegarth Club, off Banks Lane.

Participants will make their way through the village to Riddlesden St Mary's Primary School, in Grange Road, where there will be a wide range of attractions.

Gala committee secretary, Gill Bennison, said: "This year's gala will start from a new venue and the Applegarth Club is ideal, as the grounds and car park provide a perfect safe space for everyone to meet up before the parade makes its way to the school.

"Although this is the gala’s 37th outing, it is the new committee’s first run. We are very much looking forward to a new-look event, with a king and queen plus attendants – a first-ever for Riddlesden!

"At the gala itself we have fairground rides, stalls, refreshments, music and even a chance to refill cleaning product containers at the Riddlesden Green Connection stand – and much more!"

Proceeds from the gala will be split between Hainworth Community Centre Foodbank and extracurricular activities for pupils at Riddlesden St Mary’s.

Volunteers are being sought to help with the setting-up and running of the event. Anyone able to assist is asked to email riddlesden.gala@outlook.com.

More about the gala can be found on its Facebook page.

Ahead of the gala, a community litter pick is being held on Thursday, June 16, from 6pm to 7pm.

People should meet at the Co-op, in Bradford Road, to register and collect their litter picker, bag and gloves.

The finish is at the United Reformed Church, where tea, coffee and cake will be served.

The litter pick is inspired by youngsters Maisie and Angus McGuigan and friend Annabelle, who have already staged their own clean-up locally.