TORRENTIAL rain failed to deter people from turning out in force for a popular annual horticultural show.

Harden Beck Horticultural Society staged its 61st show, on the field behind the village's Golden Fleece Inn.

Appropriately given the weather, the event was opened by Dr Anne Raine.

A Harden resident for nearly 40 years, Dr Raine was an oncology and palliative care specialist, and following her retirement worked for a year at Airedale Hospital during the pandemic.

She has been part of a fundraising group for Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands for many years.

The show featured a wide range of exhibits across various classes, including flowers, vegetables, baking, preserves, handicrafts and photography.

Hot homemade refreshments and locally-produced pies were available.

There was a well-supported raffle and tombola, with prizes donated by businesses and individuals.

Music was provided by the award-winning BD1 Brass.

A host of trophies and prizes was given out.

The Harden Beck Horticultural Society Poetry Plate was awarded to Erin Holgate, Isabella Leggier won a trophy for best children’s baking, and other winners included Nicola Willoughby, for best fruit; Eileen Denning, best preserve; Isabel Arnold, best bakery; Liz Bowen, for quilting; Catherine Leather, handicrafts, and Lily Grace Mortimer, photography.

In the kitchen garden section – for gardening beginners – prizes went to Emma Moffatt, Francis Maude, Liz Hutchison and James Wright.

The Fred Hannam Trophy for best gladioli, donated in the 1980s, was won by Fred's proud grandson Derek.

David Smith exhibited an array of vegetables, and was awarded the Ernest Ward Trophy for most points in show.

Edwin Paipala received the Hopkinson Plate for his dahlias, which won best in show.

The event culminated with an auction of produce and exhibits.

Andy Macdonald, chair of Harden Beck Horticultural Society, thanked the community for its support.

He added: "Thanks also go to our many volunteers who give up their time throughout the year to maintain the showfield, and assist with setting up the polytunnel, marquees, gazebos and signage and distributing schedules etc.

"Thank you too to our judges, and to sponsors, businesses and individuals for their financial support.

"Plus a special mention to Bradford Council and Harden Village Council for their funding towards a marquee to replace one that was trashed by Storm Agnes in the days after last year’s show."

For more about the society, search on Facebook or visit hardenbeckhorticulturalsociety.co.uk