ORGANISERS of a major annual charity fundraiser have 'bowed out' in style.

The Bronte Vintage Gathering team has confirmed that this year's event – held on May 11 and 12 at the showfield in Haworth Road, Cullingworth – raised £76,452 for Manorlands.

And the team has announced that it is now standing down.

Over the years, the gathering has coined-in a total of £681,832 for the Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice.

A wide range of attractions was staged across a weekend.

This year's line-up included live music, Atkinson Action Horses, vintage and classic vehicles, SMJ Falconry, Pendle Dog Agility Club, terrier and ferret racing, a display from Haworth fire cadets, a funfair, bouncy castle and slides, rides from Blackpool donkeys, craft stalls and trade stands, an auction, plus a beer tent and food.

Trish Wood, for the organisers, says: "This year's Bronte Vintage Gathering was the best ever.

"The amount raised was staggering.

"Our thanks go to everyone who made it possible – all those who advertised, provided sponsorship, donated or visited the event, and also of course each and every one of the amazing volunteers whose hard work made it run smoothly.

"This latest amount brings our total to £681,832, which has made a huge difference to many people's lives."

Trish adds: "The sad news is that this was our final Bronte Vintage Gathering.

"Building up the event from raising £1,500 in its first year to today's amount has been an absolute joy, and we will miss it – and everyone – so much, but sadly it's as far as we can go. The event involves a huge commitment five months of each year, and we are getting older!

"Thank you to everybody for the support and help we have had in all shapes and forms over the years, and to all the visitors who have joined us. We hope you have enjoyed the ride as much as we have!"

Tribute is paid by Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Manorlands.

He says: "This latest donation is amazing and it is lovely that the hard-working Bronte Vintage Gathering committee has been able to go out on not just one high, but three, as the event has raised approximately £180,000 in the last three years.

"Donations like these mean staff at Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice can continue to provide exceptional compassionate care at its hospice in Oxenhope and in the community."