A FIRST World War themed festival in Menston has been hailed 'a tremendous success'.

Held at the Parish Church last weekend, the event featured flower arrangements, wall hangings, and paintings inspired by wartime events or characters.

It also included some dramatic installations in the church grounds including an artistic depiction of one of the first tanks, a 'wave' of specially knitted poppies and a full-size replica of a trench.

The festival was officially opened at a preview evening on Friday, September 22 by Deputy Lieutenant of West Yorkshire Ed Anderson.

The Festival Committee had organised the event as part of Menston's ongoing remembrance of the war and, specifically, the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele.

A spokeswoman said: "The festival has been a tremendous success with lots of visitors to admire the varied exhibits.

"It really has been a great weekend."

Festival-goers also enjoyed a concert on Saturday evening, featuring a performance of Faure's Requiem and a recital of war poetry.

Thirty per cent of the proceeds from the weekend will go to the Royal British Legion, with the remainder going to St John's Church.