IT may have rained almost constantly throughout the day on Saturday, but despite the weather, Skipton Charities Gala was declared a great success with plenty of support from far and wide.

There were a greater number than usual of decorated floats and walking groups taking part in the gala parade, which set off from Westmorland Street and followed a route through the town, including up the High Street, and along Gargrave Road to the gala field, Aireville Park.

Gala goers who made it to the park saw the crowning of this year’s gala queen, Poppy Reardon, a variety of stalls and games, and as chance to meet Emmerdale actor Joe-Warren Plant, who plays Jacob Gallagher in the Yorkshire-based soap.

Only the planned wresting display did not take place because of the weather, and the fireworks at the end of the evening was cancelled because of safety reasons.

Scores of people lined the procession route including along the High Street, which was also busy with the Saturday market and at least one wedding.

Shopper Angie Drayton said: “We came in for the market and hadn’t realised the gala was on, it was lovely. I felt really sorry for all those taking part, it was just pouring with rain, but many had come prepared with umbrellas and certainly looked to be enjoying themselves.”

Skipton mayor, Peter Madeley, who was part of the procession, and who addressed the crowds on the field, said despite the weather, it had been a good event. He also appealed for more people to join the organising committee to ensure the gala carried on for many more years.

“It went very well indeed. The weather was awful, but there was a lot of support from people who came up with the goods. They just need some more to come and help.”

Gala chairman, Geoff Dunn said the procession had gone very well and was even better than last year, which enjoyed the best weather the event had seen for years.

“The feedback has been very good, we had a good crew and it all went very well. Jacob Gallagher was very popular, people were queueing to meet him.”

Vera Longthorne, gala president, said the gala had been going for about 150 years and was part of the town’s history.

“I was very pleased with the way it went, we had some new members this year and it made all the difference,” she said.

Results: Fancy dress under 16 years: 1 Henry Churcher. Best school float: 1 Embsay with Eastby Pre School. Gala Queen: 1 Colne; 2 Silsden; 3 Carleton. Any organisation decorated float: 1 Skipton Junior Football Club; 2 Skipton RFC Mini and Juniors. Musical decorated float: 1#Do You Know Him.