Traditional games prove a hit at 2016 Pool Feast

The 2016 event took place at Pool Riverside Park on Sunday, June 12 and attracted large crowds, despite some ominous weather the day before.

The feast featured everything from a climbing wall, archery and a caving experience to a picnic to celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday.

Local charities and community groups also held stalls and traditional games, including coconut shies, as they promoted their work and raised money.

Organiser Richard Parker of Pool Feast Committee said: "Saturday was a nail-biter because of the way the weather was changing and I did think 'oh no, here we go'.

"But in fact it didn't rain so heavily and on Sunday morning we managed to get all the heavy vehicles on the site and ended up having a really good afternoon.

"We had all sorts of fairground activities going on and all the stallholders from the village's groups and charities enjoyed a , good and busy time.

"Our egg throwing and Wellie Boot Plank Walking contests really stood out and proved very popular - we actually ran out of eggs completely!

"So they'll be back next year.

"We did have some drizzle later in the afternoon but we carried on until 5pm and the only thing that was spoiled a little was that we'd to take the food the Jewel of India had provided for us inside to eat.

"That was just a minor blip, though, in what was a really good day."

Among those enjoying the feast were MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) and Councillor Barry Anderson (Con, Adel & Wharfedale).

Cllr Anderson said: "Pool Feast was well attended and the organisers did a brilliant job of organising lots of activities for people with plenty of variety, and of an excellent standard.

"People were clearly enjoying themselves and it was good to see the community getting together.

"The children - and some adults - were really enjoying the mini assault course and the fire engine rides, and there was also a climbing wall, trampolines and more, along with music and plenty of food stalls to keep everyone happy.

"It was a good turnout considering there were so many competing events, such as street parties for the Queen’s birthday and the Triathlon.

"I also spent some time with the Pool Neighbourhood Plan group, who had a tent with a display and information.

"They're holding a meeting on the morning of June 25 in the Village Hall focusing on transport, and we would like to get as many people to come as possible."

Mr Mulholland said: "It was another excellent Pool Feast, which is such a lovely celebration of the Pool-in-Wharfedale community.

"I was delighted to see such a great turnout with so much to do, and the short downpour didn't dampen the spirits of all the families who attended. 

"Well done to the organising committee who work so hard to make this event happen and I would especially like to commend and thank Richard Parker for all his work over many years."

Mr Parker, meanwhile, is hoping to hear from anyone interested in taking over the running of the Feast.

He said: "We've had the same committee for six years now and got a good system in place, but we're aware you can start to go into 'autopilot' after a while and feel it's time for a new committee to take over and put their stamp on it."

Anybody interested should call 07764 684023 or send an e-mail to parkerinpool@talktalk.net .