Colourful party for anniversary

SUPERHEROES . . . 8th Oldham Rainbows at their party in Liverpool

A ROYTON church was transformed into a birthday wonderland to mark 30 rainbow-filled years.

A total of 60 Rainbows from Girlguiding Oldham Division had smiles as big a Cheshire cats after they were whisked away for a magical themed tea-party to celebrate the organisation's 30th anniversary at Trinity Methodist Church.

The Alice in Wonderland-themed event ­- which even had a visit from Alice herself ­- included a host of activities such as making sweet treats, decorating tea cups, making hats and rainbow-themed art.

They also got have their pictures taken in a Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee photo booth, "Pin the Grin on the Cheshire Cat" and blew out the candles on a specially made birthday cake.

Rainbow leader, Kathryn Abram, said "I had been stressing hoping I had everything I needed to make sure the day ran smooth.

"It is all worth the time and effort when you see the girls and leaders enjoying themselves."

A host of Oldham Rainbows were among those from across the region who travelled to the ACC Arena, in Liverpool, for the ultimate superhero gathering to mark their third decade.

Over 65 girls from 2nd, 8th, 21st, 42nd and 43rd Oldham Rainbows, aged five to seven, joined over 800 Rainbows at "Razaam" to celebrate the special anniversary.

The girls enjoyed acrobatic workshops and fairground rides.

Charlotte Knox (6), from 8th Oldham Rainbows, said: "I had a great time at Razaam. My favourite bit was the fairground rides, especially the boat-swings, they were so much fun!"

Julie Bell, the Region Chief Commissioner said: "Razaam has been a truly inspirational and fun-filled day. It's been such a unique way to celebrate the Rainbows' 30th Birthday, and it's been fantastic to see the girls making friendships from all across the North-West."

For more information about how to get involved visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/joinus.