OTLEY has enjoyed an action-packed Day of Dance.

The event saw colourfully attired Morris teams from across the north of England converge on the town on Saturday, June 9.

They were there to help local side Wharfedale Wayzgoose mark its 25th anniversary in rhythmic style.

The town resonated to the sounds of bells, drums and melodeons from 11am to 4pm as the groups moved around to perform at a variety of locations.

Otley Town Council Chair Ray Georgeson (Lib Dem, Danefield) was among those who enjoyed watching - and taking part in - the fun.

He said: "Many congratulations to Wharfedale Wayzgoose on reaching their 25th Anniversary.

"It was well marked by a good crowd supporting their Day of Dance, with guest sides from around the north joining in a sunny day of music and traditional dance. "Wayzgoose are an important element of the cultural life of Otley and add greatly to the character of our town we love - the town council thanks them warmly for their contribution.

"I enjoyed joining in the 'public dance' finale, but with my inability to sort out my left and right feet it'll be a fair while before the Wayzgoose let me anywhere near a proper performance!"

Waygooze themselves participated along with fellow Otley side Buttercross Belles and a string of others including: Jet Set, Briggate, Hornbeam, Leeding Edge, Rainbow, Hexadaisy, 400 Roses, and Bradshaw.

Several pubs, including North Bar Social and The Bay Horse, were among the sites visited and the day's celebrations concluded with all of the teams meeting up at the Horse and Farrier.

Anita Walker, a founding member of Wharfedale Wayzgoose, said: "For most of Saturday the town was full of colour, clashing sticks, jangling bells and music.

"Beer and cake were also consumed in what was a thoroughly enjoyable day.

"Wharfedale Wayzgoose would like to thank all who attended as well as the people of Otley for their support."

Posting their appreciation on their Facebook page, a spokesman for the group added: "Thank you so much to everyone who danced with us and made it such an enjoyable day!

"Here's to the next 25 years!"

Wharfedale Wayzgoose started off in 1993 as a small group of friends who performed locally, but they have grown and gone on to perform with sides from across the world.

To find out more visit www.wharfedale-wayzgoose.co.uk .