There were “smiles all around” on Saturday (October 5) as a torchlight procession, that dates back 113 years, returned to Clitheroe.

The 1970s-themed torchlight procession commemorated 50 years of Clitheroe Town Council and Ribble Valley Council.

Pictures showed crowds of happy people as they danced, sang and took part in a beautiful battery-operated light procession through town.

Photographer James Stabbinor shared pictures of the day. People were dressed to impress in their own LED-light wings and outfits.

Many carried lanterns, some of which were made at the sold out lantern-making workshops, hosted by Lucie Cooke Studio earlier in the day.

Others embraced the '70s theme, wearing floral outfits, headbands and other fashion items that were typical of the era.

There was food and drink, live music and entertainment throughout the day, including the '70s-themed disco, hosted by DJ Blackers.

A spokesperson for VisitClitheroe hinted that the event may return next year.

Anita Orchard, president of Clitheroe Chamber of Commerce who helped organise the event, said the procession is a tradition going back 113 years. It was brought back this year thanks to campaigning from Simon and Donna O'Rourke, who have been working towards this for several years.

Traditionally, the event saw floats march through the town but this year’s event was a walking procession.

A spokesperson for VisitClitheroe said: “There were smiles all around for the return of the Torchlight Procession on Saturday evening.

“Bringing the event back has been championed by local residents Simon and Donna O'Rourke, for several years.

“Many of you will know them from Clitheroe Town Council and their work in the local area and, with Donna currently the town mayor of Clitheroe, they teamed up with us here at the Chamber of Trade as well as Ribble Valley Council and lots of local community groups to finally restart the popular event.

“We cannot thank you all enough for turning out on Saturday to support the event and bring a bit of fun to an otherwise dull October evening.

“You sang, you danced, you reminded us all what a great town we have, and we are truly grateful.

“As for all the volunteers who helped to organise it, thank you so much for everything you helped to create.

“We all have busy lives, so for you to take the time out of yours to arrange such a wonderful celebration is hugely appreciated. Now get some sleep, because rumour has it that the plan is to go bigger and better next year.”