CROWDS flocked to Skipton on Sunday to take part in - and watch the filming of - a new television dance programme.

The High Street was closed from early in the morning as different community groups, farmers and market stall holders practised their routines under the instruction of choreographer and presenter, Steve Elias.

Towards the middle of the afternoon, and following frequent showers, filming took place of the combined performance, which started from Holy Trinity Church and went down the length of the High Street.

Craven councillor, and former chairman of Craven District Council, Robert Mason took part, behind the wheel of one of his vintage Fordson Major tractor.

His wife, Margaret, drove the 1954 tractor to Skipton from their home in Carleton, while Cllr Mason followed in another tractor - which formed a backdrop to the performance.

Jason Smith, organiser of the annual Skipton Car Show, was also there with several classic and vintage cars.

Also taking part was Skipton Mayor Martin Emmerson, who was dressed for the occasion in his full civic regalia.

"I thought it went really well. It was a long day - I was there for nine hours - but everyone was in such good spirits and it was brilliant to see everyone pulling together, there was such a wonderful community spirit."

Malcolm Weaving, owner of the Rendezvous Hotel, said: "It was a really good do, I think the final thing will be really something."

The show is being made by Warner Bros Television and is due to to go out on BBC2 sometime in the future.

The production crew was keeping details of the show under wraps, but it is believed to have the working title of 'Yorkshire Pride' and is being filmed across the county.

Edward Brody, for the company, said: "We are filming a new television project across Yorkshire. Yorkshire has a unique identity and heritage and has been at the heart of the great changes in the industrial and cultural demographics that have shaped modern Britain. This new series is looking to pay tribute to and bring together whole communities in towns across England’s largest county. The series is fronted by new presenter, Steve Elias, whose ambition is to work with the communities and uncover what makes them unique. He’ll use what he’s learned to help them create a one-off spectacle that unites Yorkshire’s residents and showcases their towns and the county to the viewing public."