Welcome to the festival of fun

Abdul Quahar,11, has hoops of fun

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Skies may have been grey, but Oldham town centre was a picture of colour for the launch of the five-week Festival of Diversity.

The huge street party around Oldham Parish Church was full of loud music and even louder colours.

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Phil Woolas championed Oldham from inside the church while three stages of dance, music and radio competed for the attention of shoppers outside.

The Environment Minister said the wider world looks at what is happening in Oldham with great interest — but often some concern, adding: “Today, they can see that we not only tolerate each other, but celebrate each other — which is marvellous.”

Other speakers included Chief Insp Sarah Jones, from Oldham police, and the Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Shoab Akhtar as the festival was launched by the ringing of the bells. A giant pink owl, the carnival creation of Oldham’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans Forum, stood outside the church, multi-coloured flags made by local school children flapped in a chill wind and dancers wore costumes decorated with colourful flowers and shimmering decorations.

Oldham Community Radio played in front of the old town hall, offering music from brass, to folk and hip-hop.

There was a street dance space in front of the Upsteps pub and a children and family space in the church grounds, offering story-telling and play areas.

Church Lane was transformed by face-painters and the Salt Cellar Christian cafe offered food and a break from the weather.

The fun continued when the sun came out on Sunday and Alexandra Park hosted the Oldham Family Mela with music, food, fashion, stalls and a special family play space.

Leesbrook Family Fun Day also took place on Sunday. There was an environmental theme, pony rides, a duck race and craft activities.

Hollinwood got in on the act with the Hollinwood Together Festival, starting with a service celebrating diversity at St Margaret’s Church.

After a procession to Limeside Park, there was an afternoon of music, rides, a funfair, face-painting and games.