Crowds line the streets for return of Atherton carnival

Organised by the Atherton Carnival Committee, the Atherton Carnival is a yearly occasion that brings people of all ages together for a jam-packed day of activities and entertainment.

Since its inception 15 years ago, the appetite for the carnival has grown every year and last month's event was described as being "bigger than ever".

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The streets were lined with sports teams, school kids, and community groups (Image: Atherton Carnival Committee)
Despite the initial wet weather, hundreds of people lined the streets from Market Street to Meadowbank playing fields on Gloucester Street, as the crowds cheered on parades of school kids, sports teams, Morris dancers, and community groups.

With brass bands and fancy dress characters also taking centre stage during the parade, the procession led towards Meadowbank fields where there were more than sixty stalls to keep residents entertained.

Hundreds turned up to support the 'bigger than ever' carnival (Image: Atherton Carnival Committee)
These included independent food and drink stalls, children's activities and charity stalls, as well as funfair rides and live music also on offer.

Local Zumba celebrity Hannah Payton also led a routine on stage after she became known as the UK's first instructor with down syndrome.

Hannah Payton giving a Zumba class on stage (Image: Atherton Carnival Committee)
With the Atherton Carnival Committee also organising community events such as Proms in the Park, Carol Concerts, and Nativity walks, Catherine Lane said that the parade continues to improve and bring the community together in Atherton.

Catherine, who works on the Committee, said: "The whole day really brought the community together, which is the point of action from organiser Brian Seddon and the Meadowbank Sure Start Team.

"They work hard to bring this event to Atherton every year and provide something that everyone can be a part of and look forward to coming together.

"Once again the carnival was a huge success drawing in hundreds of people coming along to enjoy the day."

Brian and the Atherton Carnival Committee organise the event every year (Image: Atherton Carnival Committee)