THIS year’s Buckden Gala was one of the best ever, with large crowds coming to enjoy an even wider range of attractions than usual.

A new layout for the field, with a central arena, proved very successful, as did the relocation of the tearoom onto the gala field.

Alongside the traditional stalls, beer tent, dog and sheep shows, Buckden Pike fell race and gundog scurry, a new feature this year was a spectacular falconry display by Rapid Raptors.

A wide variety of music was provided by Skipton Ukulele Orchestra and Skipton Music Centre Big Band.

The Buckden Pike fell race, which was organised by Barlick Fell Runners, was won by Ted Mason, of Wharfedale, in a time of 34.08. Ian Holmes, of Bingley, and Adam Osborne, of Leeds City AC, were second and third respectively.

There were a record number of entrants in the children’s races, with Rebecca Scott, of Buckden, winning no less than four races.

Record numbers also entered the dog show which was judged by TV personality and Kennel Club Dog Trainer of the Year, Carolyn Mentieth.

For more gala news and pictures, see Thursday's Craven Herald.