MORE than half a century has passed since these youngsters and their families were pictured enjoying the Christmas season.

The photographs, from the archives of the Wharfedale Observer, were taken in 1965 in Otley and Burley in Wharfedale.

A Salvation Army band led carols in front of a Christmas tree at one event, which appears to have attracted large crowds.

In another shot delighted and awestruck children saw Father Christmas arrive in Otley when he visited the town in his sleigh to collect toys for needy children.

Otley Parish Church children’s party, bottom left, was staged at Burras Lane church school room.

A children’s party, bottom right, was also staged in Burras Lane School Room.

The middle photograph shows Burley in Wharfedale Parish Church children’s party.