Park parties kick start the holidays

WATCH me go . . .Lorenzo Monachino at 'Party on the Pitch'

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YOUNGSTERS enjoyed an afternoon of activities and entertainment during a unique "Party on the Pitch".

Saddleworth Rangers hosted the event on Saturday as a fundraiser for the rugby club's new clubhouse, as well as the under-14s' annual trip to play in France.

It featured stalls and children's rides, food and drinks, as well as live music including Pete Starkey, Morgan, Andy Lee, Rhapsody, Katie Koo and Kylie Minogue tribute Natalie McGrath.

A target of £250,000 has been set for the new clubhouse, with more than £170,000 raised already thanks to generous donations and fundraising events.

Elsewhere, families enjoyed fun arts and crafts in the sunshine at Dunwood Park on Sunday.

The free event, organised by Friends of Dunwood Park, in partnership with Oldham Play Action Group and Oldham Council, gave youngsters and parents the chance to explore the natural environment and create artwork or models inspired by what they saw.

Cath Jones, Friends of Dunwood Park chair, said: "We are very pleased to have engaged Oldham Play Action Group to run four activities in Dunwood Park this year.

"This first one was planned as a great way for local families to start spring half term, enjoying the freedom of the natural environment together."

And more Oldham youngsters had fun bouncing in the sun with giant inflatables.

Inflatable Fun at Chadderton Park is open every day from 10am until Saturday.

It features a selection of inflatables for children of all ages, including a giant inflatable assault course which is more than 100ft long, one of the largest in the country.