Coronation-themed Ilkley Carnival brings out record crowd

One group in the procession carried a homemade larger-than-life crown

Thousands of people have taken to the streets of a West Yorkshire town for the borough's coronation-themed carnival.

Pageantry of all shapes and sizes was on show in Ilkley as up to 1,000 people took part in the annual procession and more cheered them on.

Carnival committee chairman Andrew Stacey said about 10,000 people had visited the town's showground.

"This carnival is by the community for the community," he added.

'Always spectacular'

The procession featured a display of kings and queens, Spitfire planes, crowns and even youngsters dressed up as the Red Arrows aerobatic team.

Mr Stacey said despite weather worries before the annual event, hundreds of volunteers had worked tirelessly to make the show a success.

"It's always spectacular, but this year has been superb."

Most local primary schools take part in the community event

These children were kings and queens of their castle

A jousting re-enactment group also joined the parade

After being cancelled during the pandemic, 2022's event had seen a record-breaking turnout - but this year had been even bigger, Mr Stacey said.

"The main reason is the community supporting us. It is by the community, for the community.

"The community have shown us they want this event."

There were a few very special royal visitors by the roadside

A giant model of Big Ben was carried along the route

Music filled the air as the bagpipe band took to the streets

Children and adults dressed as the RAF Red Arrows - complete with wings