SCORCHING summer weather drew out big crowds to the 2017 Otley Carnival.

Thousands of people lined the sun-drenched streets last Saturday, June 17 to cheer on a colourful parade of floats, bands and walking groups.

The procession also featured the new Carnival Queen Hannah Pears, who was crowned at the Bridge End Carnival Field, and her attendants along with visiting dignitaries.

Carnival Committee Press Officer Nigel Gill said: "We were blessed with warm and sunny weather.

"Crowds estimated to be in their thousands watched the parade, led by Otley Bellman Terry Ford, make its way through the town.

"They were entertained by the City of Leeds Pipe Band, Foxwood Steel Bandits, Otley Town Brass Band, Drums Agogo, Westgate Cheerleaders, Tewit Youth Band, Otley Ukulele Orchestra and Slick Stick Sambastic with the Honley Samba Band.

"Afterwards the crowds gathered in the carnival field to see the Queen being crowned and watched displays from the Little Nippers Terrier Display Group, Otley Tag Rugby and Otley Rhythmic Gymastics."

Otley Town Council Chairman Councillor Ray Georgeson, a carnival traffic steward for the day, said: "Congratulations to all the hard working volunteers that made Otley Carnival such a scorching success this year.

"It's a huge effort to put on this event and, as ever, our community turned out in force to support all the good causes and have lots of fun.

"With the news feeling so bleak, people definitely needed some time in the sun and a chance for some respite."

Leeds North West MP Alex Sobel, who also attended a community picnic in Otley on Sunday for the Great Get Together in memory of MP Jo Cox, said: "As Jo said there is more in common than that which divides us and events like the carnival are so important to reinforce that feeling.

"It was great to see so many people come together on such a lovely day.

"I was delighted to be involved in the bucket collection and see so much money raised for local good causes."

Otley Town Mayor Councillor Nigel Francis added: "Every town mayor will tell you that one of the highlights of your mayoral year is the wonderful Otley Carnival.

"The floats, bands and walking displays were a credit to everyone that took part.

"I know that everyone in Otley should feel very proud of the committee, who work tirelessly for a year to put on this great event and then, as soon as it is over, they have to start again!"

Westgate Primary School, with its Safari-themed entry, was named the overall winner of the parade while Otley Zombie Apocalypse won the Class 1 prize and the Jack Barber Memorial Trophy.

The Class 2 winners were 2nd Otley Scout Group with their theme of Whacky Barrows: Pirates v Vikings, and they were awarded the Chamber of Trade Challenge Shield.

Otley All Saints C of E Primary School won Class 3 (any decorated float produced by a school), meanwhile, with their Seaside theme and received the Sharon Weston Memorial Shield.

And The Whartons Primary School won Class 4 with their 1970s inspired entry, and were awarded the AH Stott Challenge Shield.

Iris and Andy Bleasedale, meanwhile, won Class 5 for having the best fancy dress for collectors, and received the Wharfedale Glass Challenge Shield.

Mr Gill said the carnival committee was thankful to everyone who helped including the companies and individuals who provided parade vehicles, float decorations and acted as judges.

Proceeds from the day will be shared between Otley All Saints Church Bell Restoration Fund, Otley Skate Park Users Group and Otley Science Festival.