Thousands of people across the Bradford district enjoyed holiday fun over a mainly sunny May Day weekend.

In Ilkley the town's carnival yesterday was packed with visitors who turned out for a vast array of entertainment, stalls and a funfair.

This year's carnival theme was "Our Environment", and during a procession through the town hundreds of participants in stunning costumes wowed the crowds lining the streets to watch them. The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Rich-ard Wightman, was among the judges of the float competition.

Ilkley Carnival Committee chairman Andrew Munro said: "I am very pleased with the turnout. As usual, the carnival has been fantastic - absolutely brilliant.

"We were delighted with the school entries to the procession in particular. They continue every year to amaze us with their originality and the way they interpret the theme."

Mr Munro said the parade got the carnival off to a flying start before the main event at East Holmes Field.

He said this year organisers concentrated on good-quality entertainment.

Attractions in the main arena included a Spiderman stunt show, Cheshire Dog Display Team and Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

For the brave there was a chance to try the Army's aerial rope slide or tackle a climbing wall.

A more relaxing time was on offer at the afternoon tea tent.

Proceeds from the carnival go towards local clubs and organisations.

"Last year we gave away £10,000 and that's our goal for this year," Mr Munro said.

He said the committee's insurance premiums had tripled this year but it was still aiming to hit the target.

Meanwhile, visitors to Skipton were treated to a weekend of entertainment at the town's second Waterways Festival. Over three days bands, street entertainers, clowns, and dancers were out on the streets and towpaths. There were stalls, theatre performances and 100 decorated boats moored on the Leeds-Liverpool Canal.

They were lit up on Saturday night for an illuminated boat competition and there were prizes for the best dressed boat and best engine room. Youngsters enjoyed activities in the Wild over Waterways marquee, part of a drive to teach them about the country's waterways.

Rope making, face painting, brass rubbing and a special quiz were all on offer.

Rebecca Sim, festival organiser and marketing and events officer for British Waterways, said: "It has been absolutely fantastic. Every-one has had a really good time and we have had a lot of families down here.

"This is the second one we have done and it has been even better than last year.

"From now it will be an annual event on May Day Bank Holiday."