THOUSANDS of people turned out in force for one of the biggest events in Colne's calendar the Colne Gala.

About 6,000 visitors descended on Holt House playing fields for the annual event on Saturday.

The day started with a procession through the town centre led by gala queen and princess, Emma Berry, 16, and eight-year-old Lily Fontane.

Majorette groups, schools, community groups, the Accrington Pipe Band and representatives from other galas including Keighley and Skipton joined in the procession which made its way up to the playing fields in glorious sunshine As well as the procession there was plenty to entertain the crowds at the show ground including fairground rides, BMX displays, mini motos, local bands and a new event motorbike stunt displays.

Gary Seed, chairman of the gala committee, said he was delighted 33 groups entered the procession more than double last year's tally.

He said the good weather and a £2,000 grant from Pendle Council, which was spent on publicity, had help pull in the crowds.

Mr Seed added: "It went well and we had a lot more people coming along than last year. I think it was probably double the numbers.

"The weather obviously helps and we have advertised it more this year, but I am pleased everyone has turned out.

"The whole point of it is to get the community involved. We have got the rhythm and blues festival which is fantastic but it is not really for kids."

Emma Francis, 24, of Glenroy Avenue, Colne, visited the gala with her daughter Abby, six, who wanted to be the gala princess butwas too young.

She said: "I came so I could bring my little girl. It is a good day out. There seems to be more rides and it is better laid out. Also the weather makes it better."