Local food hero returns for regatta

Brian Elliott, the former proprietor of Ripley Ice Cream.

A retired ice cream vendor and founder of the '˜world famous' Ripley Ice Cream parlour is making a comeback for one day only to serve his delicious fare at South Pennine Boat Club's forthcoming regatta.

Brian Elliott, who retired when he sold the family ice cream business at Ripley 11 years ago, has been busy restoring one of his original Swiss-made ice cream machines and will create a new recipe to help promote the regatta on Saturday 6 May.

Mr Elliott explained, “I like to keep busy and when not boating and have a keen interest in engineering.

“I still own several redundant ice cream machines and have just finished restoring one to its original condition which will be used for the regatta.”

A whole range of attractions planned for the event including boat trips along the Calder & Hebble Navigation, a model boat display, stalls, bouncy castle, children’s entertainment and competitions, plus live music, barbecue, a real-ale bar and tea room.

The regatta will take place between 11am and 5pm at South Pennine Boat Club, Wood Lane, Mirfield.

Admission is free and visiting boats are welcome (booking form available from the website www.southpennineboatclub.co.uk)