MUSIC fans have enjoyed a 'very special' Otley Folk Festival.

Large crowds turned out to enjoy the 25th anniversary event, sponsored by Black Sheep Brewery, between Friday, September 16 and Sunday, September 18.

All kinds of acts, from singer-songwriters, Morris dancers and a ukulele orchestra to full bands and a cappella outfits, performed at venues across town over the three days.

They included festival debutants, much anticipated acts like Du Temps Antan and The Churchfitters, and a string of groups who had played at the very first event, in 1991.

Local MP Greg Mulholland enjoyed the occasion both as a spectator and, playing with the band he fronts, Summercross, a performer.

He said: "The 25th Otley Folk Festival was a fantastic weekend and a wonderful celebration of twenty five years of this excellent event.

"There were some great acts on over the weekend and some cracking performances from the headline acts, some artists appearing for the first time, and some of the acts that performed at the very first festival

"There was a great atmosphere in the town on Saturday with lots of people of all ages having a great time and it was great to see many of Otley's famous pubs hosting sessions and dancing.

"As well as rightly toasting this milestone festival, those who were involved in the festival but are no longer with us were appropriately remembered, including stalwart Jim Lawton.

"So it was a memorable and special weekend, huge congratulations and thanks go to Steve Fairholme and the team and volunteers who made the festival happen - and thanks also to sponsors Black Sheep and Otley Town Council."

Otley Town Council Chairman Councillor Ray Georgeson added: "The 25th Folk Festival lived up to its billing and the weather also helped!

"The blend of festival regulars and new talent worked really well, it is the warp and weft of a successful festival, along with great support from Otley's pubs, venues and cafes and the many volunteers that work so hard to make it a success."

Festival organiser Steve Fairholme meanwhile, posting on Twitter on Sunday evening, said: "What a cracking weekend!

"Thank you all who came and supported us."

Among the many other acts who performed were The Hall Brothers, Duncan McFarlane, Yan Tan Tether, Lucy Ward, Vin Garbutt, Stanley Accrington, Nick Hall and Bayou Gumbo.