Wild West comes to Ingleton (From Craven Herald)

Wild West comes to Ingleton

2:53pm Thursday 20th September 2012 in News

The Wild West came to Ingleton at the weekend – but soldiers on both sides of the American Civil War had to admit defeat.

It wasn’t the fighting that caused problems when, for the third year, the village was turned into a 19th century American community, but rather the torrential rain.

“The weather got us again,” said Elaine Ward who organises the weekend with her husband John.

“We had to cancel Sunday’s events because it absolutely poured down. It is such a shame but the rain beat us.”

One casualty was the Culpepper Western Charity Show whose “cowboys” raise money for disabled and terminally ill children.

However, Saturday’s events proved popular, with more people than ever watching the re-enactments by the American Civil War Society, who had set up camp at Holme Head Caravan Park.

“There were about 300 people, which is more than last year,” said Elaine.

Visitors were able to inspect the soldiers’ authentic uniforms and gain an insight in their living conditions while children were given a lesson in marching and drills.

And there was plenty of support when the Union and Confederate soldiers joined together to march into the village square, with weapons at the ready.

Other highlights included line dancing with Liz Culshaw, live country music with singer Bob Morgan, pony rides and the chance to pan for gold.

“We will be back next year and hopefully the sun will shine,” added Elaine, who also organises the village’s 1940s weekend.

Any proceeds will be ploughed back into next year’s Wild West event.