It’s carnival time

THIS weekend’s Oldham Carnival promises to be the best yet with a packed programme of entertainment.

The event takes place at Alexandra Park on Saturday and Sunday and could attract up to 30,000 people over the weekend.

It kicks off with the carnival parade at 1pm on the Saturday. This follows a two-mile route from the junction of Park Road and Kings Road, along Ashton Road, down Honeywell Lane and back into Kings Road.

Both days are packed with things to do from camel rides and train trips to slackline walking — walking on a bouncy tightrope.

People can also catch the Cheshire Dog Display Team, Indian and Filipino dancers, children’s entertainment, fun fair rides, food stalls and more.

The feast of music and dance on the main stage includes rock, indie and country, body popping and rap.

A 60-strong team of volunteers has been working hard for the last 12-months to make sure the carnival is a success.

It was switched from its usual slot at the end of June to avoid a World Cup clash. Organisers also hope to for better weather and more visitors during the school holidays.

Event director Paul Davies first organised the carnival five years ago and said: “The previous carnival had died a death so a couple of us decided to have a bash.

“We renamed it the people’s carnival to give it a new image and it has gone from strength to strength.

“It is all going very well and it looks like it is going to be the best one we have organised so far.”

For more information visit: www.oldhamcarnival.org.uk