Tip operator to back top event

Bryan Pinder (far right), of Veolia Environmental Services, hands over the sponsorship cheque to (from left to right) Philip Hibbert, vice-president of Oldham Metro Rotary Club; Peter Mallison, past president of Saddleworth Rotary Club; Gordon Russell, of Oldham Metro Rotary Club; Martin Curtois, marketing director of Veolia, and Simon O’Connor, Veolia regional manager

THE Saddleworth Summer Show has received a huge boost after securing sponsorship from the operators of the controversial High Moor tip.

Veolia Environmental Services has donated £4,500 to support a series of events at the show, which takes place on June 14 at Churchill playing fields, Greenfield.

The event is also sponsored by the the Oldham Evening Chronicle.

The windfall has enabled the show’s joint organisers, Saddleworth and Oldham Metro rotary clubs, to increase the number of acts that will entertain visitors in two special arenas.

Presenting the cheque to representatives of both clubs, Bryan Pinder, Veolia’s general manager for landfill, said: “This year’s show promises to be bigger and better than ever and we are delighted to be involved in sponsoring the event for the first time and lending it our support.

“We are tremendously impressed by the enthusiasm of the local rotary clubs to increase the number of acts and entertainment. They deserve a big turnout on the day to support their efforts aimed at raising money for local charities.

“Visitors will have the chance to meet many local businesses taking stands at the event and people will be able to talk to our staff and find out more about High Moor landfill site.

“However, the most important thing is that everyone comes along to enjoy the show and have a great time.”

Organisers are promising an action-packed show, providing an array of attractions which are expected to encourage a record-breaking turnout.

Among the star performers at the event will be a display by birds from Malhamdale Falconry, which were hugely popular with last year’s crowd.

Llamas and exotic breeds are scheduled to make an appearance, along with donkey rides, a donkey derby and the popular duck race.

The English Civil War Society will provide a colourful display and give visitors the chance to experience the sights and smells of the 17th century.

Other performers include Tom and Tilley Tomfoolery — featuring the world’s almost flying three-wheeled comedy car — and the Wacky Tumblairs, a comedy-style trampoline act.

Children are encouraged to take part in a prize-winning scarecrow competition where they will gain free entry if they come in appropriate garb.

Organisers are aiming to have model scarecrows around Saddleworth villages ahead of the event itself to encourage entry.

They are repeating the Schools Expo event and the schools’ football competition. In addition, there will be local charity and craft stalls.

Last year, despite being held on one of the windiest weekends of the summer, the show, which donates all proceeds to local charities, raised nearly £8,000 and attracted more than 4,000 people.

Businesses seeking to be associated or have a stand at the show should check the show’s new website : www.saddleworthshow.org.uk.