Cleckheaton community praised by festival organisers

Folk legends such as Dougie MacLean and Jez Lowe graced Spenborough Town Hall, while colourful celebrations took place around town during the three-day event.

Chief organiser David Minich, of Pyenot Hall Lane, led Saturday’s parade – a standard of the annual festival.

“It’s really thrilling to walk through the town and see so many smiling faces coming back at you,” he said.

“The team that works for me has worked exceptionally.”

His wife Janice, who also organises the festival, added: “If it was not for the community and the stewards we wouldn’t be here.”

Morris dancers from near and far were featured in the parade.

Sarah Jo-Dawson, a member of Thievin’ Magpies border Morris group in Marsden, was impressed.

She said: “It’s a regular on our calender. We always get a good welcome and see different styles of dancing.”

Daniel Hughes, of Heckmondwike, brought daughters Freya, Hayleigh, Sophie and Lilli to see the parade.

He said: “It’s good for the kids and keeps them interested. It’s something different. We come every year.”

Visit our website to see a video of the parade.