A carnival atmosphere in the park

OLDHAM’S traditional carnival moves from the town centre streets to its new home in Alexandra Park when the parade rolls into action on Sunday.

The annual procession, which takes place from 2pm, will focus on dance and costume rather than float decoration and promises to be livelier and more colourful than ever.

The parade gets under way near the Abbeyhills Road gate before winding its way down the main path to the bowling green and pavilion, crossing the wide path between the lakes and ending up on the promenade for the finale.

Revellers can also enjoy a spectacular It’s A Knockout-style contest which has 24 teams signed up to compete.

A mini-Olympics competition and the UK Dance Troupe Championships will also take place on a packed main field.

Fun-fair rides, food stalls, charity and information stalls, a BMX tournament and free face-painting for youngsters will all be on offer.

The Community Stage, sponsored by Oldham Academy North, will feature a full line up of local talent from noon-9pm.

Acts include Oldham Rockestra, Anya Simpson, Ryan Brogan, OCL’s Zumbathon, Solomon, Paul Watson, The Fate, Knight Terra, Act One Theatre Group, Angela Marie, Martin Minshall, The Contenders, Envy with OTT and MC KD, Indian Dance Association, January, MTL, Odd Squad, Journey Man, 3-Flow, Sixty Syndicate and Clean Cut Kid.

The Lion’s Den stage will feature Zumba Fitness, Al Kimiya Belly Dance Group, Hypkid, All Arts Talent Show, Contra, Portuguese Musical Rap, Integrated Youth Services, The Drunken Munks Show and Lee Cluskey.

Visitors to the carnival can park for free at Snipe Clough or on the roads surrounding the park.