POOL Feast is ‘back to life’.

Those were the relieved words of the organisers after Pool-in-Wharfedale’s big community event was successfully held on Sunday, August 4.

The feast has been a long-running annual attraction that allows residents and visitors to have fun while local charities and groups promote their activities and raise funds. But there was no feast in 2017 or 2018 due to organisational problems which left the feast’s future uncertain.

Large crowds, however, turned out last weekend to welcome the event back and enjoy fairground attractions, games, stalls and more in bright sunshine.

Adel and Wharfedale Councillors Barry and Caroline Anderson declared the feast open.

Cllr Barry Anderson said: “Pool Feast was a great success, everyone was enjoying themselves and there were plenty of things to do.

“It was an honour for Caroline and I to be asked to open the feast. We got a very warm welcome from everyone involved in the organisation of it and I thank Pool Feast Committee for inviting us.

“The event was expertly organised and everyone was enjoying themselves. The children were having a great time on the rides and the three who were asked to do the introductions as the King (William Hargreaves) and Queens (Caitlyn Willbourne and Chloe Claydon) were a credit to the whole village. It’s great to see events like this, it brings the community together and showcases the great facilities Pool has.”

Live music was provided - as a new attraction organised by Martin Dennison - by local bands Time Warp, The Irish Fiddly Diddlers, Stormin Norman and The Names, who performed into the evening. The food on offer continued into the night too, with the Jewel of India providing curry in the Village Hall from 5pm.

Pool Feast Committee member Richard Parker said: “It was important to Pool village that this year’s Feast took place, ending a two year break which threatened to put an end to this event.

“It was through Moira Keith that the event was planned again for 2019 and her tireless enthusiasm drew together a very effective committee of new and former members.

“Once again the feast provided a range of activities for young and old. Funfair activities were provided by Braiden Tuby Fairground Attractions and local provider Image First Events who brought their ever popular assault course and Diddy Dennis the Fire Engine. The children were also able to take part in Beat the Goalie and races, and a dog show was enthusiastically attended with money raised for Saving Yorkshire’s Dogs.

“All who attended agreed that this was one of the best feasts in recent memory and widespread enthusiasm was expressed to ensure it has a healthy future.”