Keighley Gala has been hailed a success as crowds turned out in force to see Saturday's parade and visit the funfair.

Organisers of the 126th extravaganza appreciated the support but urged more people to get involved next year to ensure it survives.

The procession started at Malsis Road in the afternoon with a variety of colourful floats -- including the Gala Queen Victoria McGuinness and her retinue -- which paraded through town.

Chairman of the gala committee Brian Hudson said: "The parade was excellent despite a nasty incident before it started.

"At Malsis Road someone fired an air gun at one of the cars and shattered the back window.

"Thankfully, no one was hurt but it was worrying. The police were excellent though."

Keighley's new town councillors joined other local representatives on the parade and walked about collecting money for charity.

Mr Hudson added: "It was good to see the Mayor and other councillors really entering into the spirit of it and enjoying themselves.

"We don't know a definite figure of how much we've raised but, hopefully, from all the collections and the fair it will be somewhere in the region of £2,000 for local charities."

Marshalls Amusements funfair, at Victoria Park, entertained the crowds with spectacular thrill rides, including the largest travelling ride of its type -- Top Buzz -- which was making its debut in the region.

Other attractions included majorette displays and a host of stalls and the fireworks finale at dusk.

Mr Hudson said: "A lot of people have really pulled out all the stops to help the committee and we've just about struggled through. But without more support I really don't think we can do another one. We need more people to volunteer to help us sort things out.

"There's just four or five of us working desperately hard to keep this event for the people, so if people could just volunteer some of their time or services and honour it then it would be such a help."

He said: "Overall we've been really pleased with how it's gone. People seemed to enjoy it, the fireworks got a cheer and we raised some money for charity.

"Keighley gala is an old animal and we really need some new blood on the committee to keep it alive and kicking."

One of the organisers, Jason Patefield, added: "I would like to pay a special thanks to the West Yorkshire Police, Scout Service Team and St John Ambulance -- without their help the procession would not be possible."

For more information about helping the gala committee contact Mr Patefield on 01535 676184 or Mr Hudson on 01535 604379 or 07774 946394.

The front cover of the gala programme was designed by a student at Keighley College.

First year graphic design students were set the challenge to design the cover and Costa Giannakapoulos, 19, of Random Close, was the overall winner.

As well as seeing his design used on this year's gala programme he also won £40 in gift vouchers, sponsored by Worths Communications.

Costa is currently studying a full time BTEC National Diploma in graphic design.

A gala committee spokesman said that he would like to thank Costa for his wonderful design and Bill Parker and the rest of the staff at Keighley College.

n Local organisations are invited to apply for a share in the proceeds from the gala.

Groups should apply in writing to gala committee secretary Joyce Ashworth, at Station House, Gargrave BD23 3NE.

The deadline for applications is August 19. Beneficiaries will be decided at a special meeting the following day.

Gala Queen Victoria McGuinness (above) with her retinue