It’s a sweet date in the calendar that celebrates a West Yorkshire town’s unique sweet-making heritage.
Thousands of people braved the sun to gather for the return of the Pontefract Liquorice Festival.
Returning as headline sponsor for the third consecutive year, HARIBO UK shared it Pontefract Cakes and joined thousands of festivalgoers for a day dedicated to the town's historic connection to liquorice.
Among those taking part were local roller derby club Wakey Wheeled Cats, who bought two giant liquorice-themed roller skates to the parade. As well as Diamond Cheerleading, whose liquorice-themed costumes and pom-poms added even more colour and excitement.
Tabea Powell, head of communications at HARIBO UK, said: "The Pontefract Liquorice Festival is a fantastic celebration of West Yorkshire and its unique sweet-making heritage.
"What makes the event so special is the role local people play in bringing it to life. From schools and community groups to performers, volunteers and local businesses, the festival showcases the very best of Pontefract's community spirit.”
1. Liquorice Festival
Crowds filled the streets of Pontefract for the return of the annual Liquorice Festival, celebrating the town's famous connection with liquorice. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
2. Liquorice Festival
The colourful Liquorice Parade made its way from Pontefract Town Hall to Pontefract Castle with dancers, stilt walkers, community groups and the Flat Cap Brass Band entertaining visitors. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
3. Liquorice Festival
Performers from Scarlett Entertainment were joined by DanceWithAlice Cheer Team, Diamond Cheerleading and the Wakey Wheeled Cats Roller Derby Team, all using liquorice-themed costumes and props. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
4. Liquorice Festival
The popular family event brought music, colour and fun to the town, attracting thousands of visitors for a day of celebration and entertainment. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
5. Liquorice Festival
Yvette Cooper, Labour MP for Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley, and Foreign Secretary taking photographs of the Liquorice Parade as it travels through the town. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty
6. Liquorice Festival
Pictured Yvette Cooper, Labour MP for Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley, and Foreign Secretary greeting one of the street entertainers Victoria Sponge, AKA Rachel Hyde. | James Hardisty Photo: James Hardisty