Hundreds of people turned out in the bright sunshine for the first ever Brighouse Canal, Beer & Music Festival.
And the message to come out from the event was simple: “Brighouse is really buzzing”.
Crowds flocked to the event in the town which is still basking in the glory of a highly successful 1940s weekend organised, again, by the Brighouse Business Initiative, (BBI).
Organisers are hoping that this new festival is just part of a series of events which will hopefully bring 250,000 visitors to the town and which could be worth as much as £2m to the local economy this year.
Visitors were able to see the historic waterway, the Calder and Hebble Navigation, filled with many boats, while more adventurous types were able to enjoy a trip on a boat. And for those who enjoy a pint or two there was a local real ale tent to make the two day event even more enjoyable.
Other attractions included a funfair, steam train, an animal display, West Riding Classic Car Club as well as a local produce and craft market in the town centre.
This sold all manner of tasty delights ranging from African and Caribbean cuisines as well as locally made cheeses, cakes, jams and pickles.
If that was not enough fun to be had there was live music performed with more than 30 acts ranging from folk, jazz and pop music, designed to get those toes tapping. Not bad for a free event with guests invited only to bring their folding chairs and plenty of cash!
Mike Fretwell, of the Calder Navigation Society which co-ordinated all the moorings and boat movements, said the canal boats made a wonderfully colourful backdrop to the events that took place all over the town.
He said: “It’s sure to generate huge interest in the canal which is great for all who use it.”
Lesley Adams, chairman of the BBI, said: “Brighouse is really buzzing nowadays.
“The events we’re bringing to the town have captured people’s imaginations and they turn out in their thousands to enjoy them. This new event is really exciting.”
