'˜Parade is life-blood of village'

And this year’s Gawthorpe Maypole Procession and Feast again drew in crowds and participants from across the village and surrounding areas.

May Queen Chloe Stanley led the procession through the village streets with her maids of honour and the Yorkshire Imperial Brass Band.

And when they reached the maypole green there was performances from the Maypole dancers as well as fairground rides and stalls.

Duncan Smith, secretary of the Gawthorpe Maypole Committee which organises the event, said: “Our celebrations are more than just a tradition - they are the very lifeblood of our community.

“Community traditions like these are precious occasions, which need and deserve our support.”

The event also raised money for a special afternoon tea and entertainment event for around 100 elderly people.