CHARITIES are to benefit from a share of £14,000 thanks to the generosity of people who turned up to Rossendale Valley Motorbike Show.

Bike enthusiasts hailed the September show a success, despite the takings falling by around £4,000 on the previous year.

Organisers blamed rising overheads for the fall in profits.

Rawtenstall was packed for the event when around 60,000 descended on the Valley to watch the free entertainment provided by trial bikers on Daisy Hill, stunt riders on Bocholt Way, mini-moto at Asda and bands on Bank Street.

Show president Fred Tolley said: "Although the money raised is not as much as last year, it is still the second largest donation the show has ever given away and it is still a good figure.

"It will reward the charities that helped make the show possible.

"The amount is lower because overheads have increased, and there were also some unofficial car parks set up which reduced the amount of money we can give to charity."

The bike show's annual general meeting will be on February 9 at Ashday Lea, Rawtenstall, and the presentation evening will be on 23 February at a venue to be announced.

This year's show is on 19 September and promises to be spectacular.

Fred said the entertainment would be of the same quality, but the show may be restricted by developments in the town centre.

A new caterer is being sought and volunteers are needed to join the team organising the event.

Mr Tolley said: "We also need someone for art and design, a show director, chairman and vice-chairman."

A booking form is available for traders and anyone interested in joining the committee can phone the bike show office on 01706 227560.