RECORD crowds turned out for last year's Keighley Show, say organisers.

Reflecting on its success, Keighley & District Agricultural Show Society's annual general meeting heard that the event had been "blessed" with good weather.

And discounted admission prices, courtesy of support from Keighley Town Council, had helped draw visitors.

The show, at Marley playing fields in September, was making its return after an enforced two-year absence due to the pandemic.

There was a huge range of attractions across the showground.

Chair William Mitchell thanked everyone for their "hard work", and told the meeting: "After a two-year absence it had initially been a struggle to get back 'in the swing' but the feedback has been really positive, and everyone should be proud of what was accomplished."

His comments were echoed by retiring president Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

He added: "Keighley Show has a good, solid team and congratulations go to everyone on pulling together to make the day a success. I thoroughly enjoyed show day, and my year as president."

Mr Wood was presented with a photo album as a memento.

Jack Atkinson has been elected president for this year.

He began his working life as a milkman and butcher, and for the past 30 years has owned Goose Eye Brewery.

Mr Atkinson attended Keighley Show regularly from his early teens, and later joined the committee.

In 2002 he became an 'apprentice' with the then site management team, and took on the post of show manager in 2006, for ten years. He said he'd enjoyed the role, but added: "It will be lovely to see this year’s show in relaxed surroundings instead of worrying that everything is running smoothly!"

The meeting was told that while the accounts confirmed the society could look forward to this year's show – on September 2 – "with confidence", sponsorship, donations and fundraising would still be needed to cover the rising costs of staging the event.

Officials re-elected included chair Mr Mitchell and treasurer Will Twigg.

The secretary role is currently vacant and the society would like to hear from anyone interested in being considered for a revised post of show administrator. Also, volunteers wishing to help with the show in any capacity are welcome, and the committee is seeking an individual or small team willing to run the rabbit section.

For more details, visit keighleyshow.co.uk or email secretary@keighleyshow.co.uk.