A RECORD number of vehicles are due to feature in next weekend's Otley Vintage Transport Extravaganza.

The annual fundraiser takes place on September 13, and some 550 classic cars, along with motorbikes, lorries, buses and military vehicles, will be on show.

The event, held at Knotford Nook, raises money for Otley-based children's charity Hang On To A Dream, and also includes a variety of live music and other entertainment.

Organiser and town councillor, Nigel Francis, who is the charity's chairman, said: "Entries to all classes are up and a couple of weeks ago we had to stop any further bookings as we have 50 more vehicles than we had at last year’s event.

"Unfortunately, we cannot make the field any bigger so we limit entries to 500, but this year we have about 550, so things will be very tight.

"There are only a small number of stall spaces left, too, and these will be gone very shortly."

In sadder news, the extravaganza has lost its compere following the death of 61-year-old John Davison, who had filled the role for the past five years.

Cllr Francis said: "Our thoughts and prayers go to John's family at this sad time, but I know he would have said ‘the show must go on’."

The organisers are still hoping to add up to another 12 volunteers to their team for the day.

Contact Cllr Francis via e-mail at nigelfrancis@btinternet.com or call 01943 463467.

Other attractions on the day, which runs from 10am to 4pm, will include fairground organs, steam engines, a car boot sale, Terrier racing, a Mountain Dogs display and Punch and Judy shows.

Admission costs £3.50 for an adult, £3 for concessions, with accompanied children aged under 14 getting in for free.

Free parking is provided at the field, off Pool Road.