Revellers enjoy fun in the sun

Photo: Paul Sterritt

GEE up! From the left, Liana, Diana and Seherezade Petrovics, enjoying a donkey ride

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THOUSANDS of Oldhamers flocked to Alexandra Park yesterday for a renowned carnival.

Young and old alike celebrated at the rescheduled Oldham Carnival Rootz Festival after it was postponed two months ago.

Organisers called off the carnival in mid-July due to wet weather but Sunday's sunshine attracted families from across the borough between 11am and 6.30pm.

Stage shows, zumba, dog shows, fairground rides and 25 model boats created by the Mutual Model Boat Society were among the day's fun line-up.

Compere Martin Turner (60), of the carnival committee said: "It was a lovely day with the most amazing atmosphere.

"The crowds were excellent and the sun came out for us.

"This is our tenth anniversary and it was one of the best atmospheres yet.

"There is a lot of depression and difficulty in Oldham so it is great when you see local people all coming together."

Up to 10,000 residents enjoyed a variety of food stalls and a whole host of free events, including 14 separate acts on the main stage.

The Oldham-based talent included Act One theatre group, Fierce Dancers, Frozen sing-a-long, Rachel Kelly and Chris Henderson.

Crowds were entertained by young performers from Footlights elite team, including solos by children as young as ten.

Instructor Ferne Collins (23) said: "This was the first performance the team had done together since forming in February.

"The audience have given them so much support.

"Some of them train for 12 hours each week - they are absolutely amazing."

Megan Walsh (ten) who joined Footlights six months ago said: "At first I was too scared and was crying as we were practising. But as soon as we got on stage I absolutely loved it."

Visitors also signed their beloved pooches up for the fun dog show organised by Manchester and Cheshire Dogs Home.

Judges gave rosettes to the winners, including Paddy the six-year-old King Charles spaniel for the waggiest tail.

Mahdlo kept the younger generation entertained with an assault course, face painting, arts and crafts and circus skills.

District youth work manager Raz Mohammed said: "I think everyone had a fabulous time."

• See our picture sales page for more carnival photos.