Cowboys roamed the plains of Armley and music fans enjoyed a feast of country tunes.

Hundreds of country music fans descended on a piece of land behind the West Leeds Sports and Social Club, packing out the tiny field.

Fans started arriving from as far afield as Scandinavia, Spain and Scotland – many dressed as cowboys and Indians.

But it's not just about belting out the classics of Willie Nelson, Tammy Wynette and a few hillbilly hits.

Britain has its own thriving country scene and a throng of up-and-coming UK artists will perform over the weekend as the week-long festival reaches its finale.

The festival also featured horseshoe and knife-throwing contests, a traditional 'chuck wagon', a fastest-draw competition and, of course, line dancing!

It was started two years ago by country music fans Aiden J Daniels and his wife Debbie, from Farnley.

Aiden, 53, has been listening to country music for 40 years and sings and plays guitar with his own band.

He said: "Once again we are completely sold out. It's such great bouncalong music, with some great heartfelt lyrics. I've met more friends through country music than I ever have. It's just one big happy time."

Now Aiden says the festival is so big it may have to move to a bigger venue.

The line-up of artists featured acts like Pete Buffalo, Railroad Bill, Interstate 509 and Henry Smith and his Country Dreams. It concludes tomorrow with Dave Cash and Rootn Tootn.


* For more information on country music in Leeds, or to take part in future festivals, call (0113) 2797809 or email: west-leeds-cmr@countrymusic.co.uk