ORGANISERS of this year's Riddlesden Gala have hailed the event as a huge success.

And they've revealed that the extravaganza raised £2,000.

The cash has been shared between Keighley Imagination Library and Riddlesden St Mary’s Primary School & Nursery.

Hundreds of people attended the annual event, in its 38th year.

The gala began with a procession from the Marquis of Granby pub to the school, in Grange Road.

Attractions at the gala field included a coconut shy, games, a tug of war competition between the Marquis of Granby and Willow Tree pubs, a fancy dress contest, music from Haworth Brass Band, food and drinks and a host of stalls manned by groups and businesses, such as the Men of Worth Project, Tropic Skincare, Eyes on the Fries and the Rusted Kingdom.

The organising committee was headed up by local Guide leader Emma Groves-Jones, who said: "We had a fantastic time organising the event and, despite there being bumps in the road ahead of the big day, we were pleased with how it went and the number of people who came along to support it.

"We want to thank everyone who attended – it was great to see so many smiling faces. Thanks also to Keighley Big Local and Bradford Council for supporting us in various ways, and to local businesses which help promote the gala.

"We were chuffed to be able to give £1,700 in takings to Keighley Imagination Library, which offers a free book every month delivered to under-fives who live in Keighley East, West and Central wards. Riddlesden St Mary’s received £300 too, and we know that will be handy for the school."

Helen Jones, chair of the Keighley Imagination Library steering group and head at Keighley's Strong Close Nursery School, was at the gala with a stall.

She said: "Our presence meant we could tell people all about how great reading is for future prospects, family bonding and for mental health."

And scheme co-founder Councillor Caroline Firth said: "The books are always free to families, but behind the scenes there is a cost of £26 a year per child, so generous donations like this one from Riddlesden Gala really help."

A further £500 raised at the event has been set aside for next year’s gala, to help cover costs such as for road closures and insurance.

To sign up your child to Keighley Imagination Library, visit imaginationlibrary.com/uk/affiliate/KEIGHLEY.