Bright and sunny weather conditions brought thousands of visitors into Skipton on Sunday for the first of this year’s Yuletide Festivals.

Almost 100 coaches arrived from all over the country and they were greeted at the Coach Street drop-off point by Mayor of Skipton, Coun Wendy Clark.

It is estimated that the event attracted more than 15,000 visitors - an increase of around 10 per cent on last year.

The full Skipton market was in operation and charity and community group stalls on the High Street all reported brisk trade and good takings.

There was a range of street entertainment, with the day being rounded off with a torch procession where hundreds of visitors carrying Olympic-style flames made their way to Holy Trinity Church for a carol service in the church grounds.

Town centre manager Brett Butler said: “After the torrential rain we’ve had at several events this year, the weather couldn’t have been better last Sunday and this really helped swell the crowds. The atmosphere was really Christmassy with everyone in a good mood and enjoying what the town had to offer.”

He added: “We tried to focus on creating a festive atmosphere - and it was great to see the High Street so busy. In particular, it was good to see so many local residents joining with the visitors to make it a real family day out.”

Dave Parker, chief officer of Skipton Town Council, said: “I’d just like to pay tribute to my town centre team, to the market traders, local shopkeepers and everyone else involved in making the event such a success.

“I’d also like to thank the Skipton Business Improvement District for their funding support.

“Without that, events like this which are so important to maintaining the town’s viability would simply not happen.”

The second of this year’s festivals will take this Sunday, starting from 10am and running through to the torch procession at 4pm and there will be a full programme of entertainment.

Skipton High Street will be closed to traffic for the day and, to help with the setting up of the event, no parking will be allowed on the High Street overnight on Saturday.