SKIPTON Charities Gala Committee has again handed over a share of a near £3,000 windfall, the proceeds of last year’s annual highlight, to a total of 13 deserving local charities, community groups and organisations.

The cheque presentation evening was held at the Rendezvous Hotel, Skipton, conducted jointly by long-serving gala committee chairman Geoff Dunn and 2019 gala queen 11-year-old Poppy Reardon, who attends Upper Wharfedale School.

One of the beneficiaries was the Luke Mortimer Fund, whose father Adam made a moving presentation about what happened to his son, his current condition and the long road ahead for the family. He thanked everyone who has and continues to raise money for him and the family.

Other recipients were Embsay with Eastby Pre-School Playgroup, Skipton Camping Young Persons, Skipton Church Institute Cricket Club, Aireworth Dogs in Need, Skipton Junior Football Club, The Carers’ Resource, 5th Skipton Parish Church Scouts, Dementia Friendly, Little Feet Creche C.I.C, Boyle & Petyt School, Skipton Fire Station and Trinity Methodist Church.

This year’s gala queen selection ceremony is at The Rendezvous Hotel, on Sunday, March 15. Entries are open until March 8 via the website at www.skiptongala.org.uk

The 2020 queen will be crowned at this year’s gala on Saturday, June 13, with entrance to the field again free.