ON the hottest day of the year so far, crowds flocked to Upper Wharfedale for the traditional mix of stalls, refreshments, children’s activities, dog and sheep shows, fell race and fun at Buckden Gala.

The gala field on Saturday was a blaze of colour in the glorious sunshine, with Buckden Pike as a magnificent backdrop.

Musical entertainment was provided by the Skipton Youth Band and Skipton Community Orchestra.

There was an excellent turnout for the dog show, judged this year by Helen, Sonia and Debbie, who stepped in at short notice.

Dog show winners were: Waggiest Tail - Bea; Dog Most Like Its Owner - Toba; Handsomest Dog - Ted; Prettiest Bitch – Isla. The Judge's Favourite was Musta, with Milly as runner up.

Jack Cummings of Ilkley Harriers, who finished with a time of 34.17, won the fell race, which was organised by Barlick Fell Runners. Spike Smith of Ripon Runners and John Murfin of Settle Harriers were second and third, respectively.

The children’s races were extremely popular, with the children competing in a variety of classes, many of which have yet to be adopted at the Olympics. Some of these games included running backwards, balancing a turtle beanbag on your head race, as well as sack and bat and ball races.

For the third year running, Rebecca Scott of Buckden won no less than four races, and the afternoon finished with a tug-of-war and an egg throwing contest.

As a respite from all the activity on the field, the tearoom provided teas, scones sandwiches and cakes, while this year the beer tent was provided by Ed Yarrow from the George at Hubberholme.

Organisers thanked all those who supported the gala, both the visitors and helpers.

They also thanked gala field marshal Bev Owen, and Debbie Roe, the gala secretary, who along with the gala committee members Richard, Anne, Linda and Robin, organised the gala and coordinated all of the volunteers to ensure a great community event was thoroughly enjoyed by all.