Horwich Advertiser Issue 628

Page 14 October/November 2025 AD SALES 01204 478812 THE first Festival of Blackrod has been hailed a huge success by organisers as more than 4,000 people flocked to enjoy the free entertainment. They were treated to a massive party at Blackrod Cricket Club with attractions ranging from fairground rides to an exotic petting zoo. From local history and schools to businesses, emergency services, sports clubs, and community groups – every thread of Blackrod life was represented. Local artists and performers took to the stage to deliver a range of music and entertainment. Other attractions included an entertaining dog show and a ‘Find the Mayor’ competition. The event, organised by Blackrod Town Council, ended in the evening with the audience dancing in the rain with glowsticks! The festival followed the success of Horwich’s annual event which this year attracted thousands of visitors. Kathryn Grant, Blackrod’s town mayor, said: “I was delighted to be involved with the team for the organi- sation and fruition of the first Festival of Blackrod. “We had a great day and it was a real opportunity to see just howmuch of a close-knit community we have in Blackrod. “There was fun, laughter, singing and dancing, as well as celebration of our community groups within our midst and our local talent on stage. “A massive thank you to all the hard workers behind the scenes that pulled off a fabulous day! Congratula- tions also to Polly, age five, who won the Find the Mayor competition and won herself a new Nintendo Switch!” Town clerk Lara Nuttall added: “I personally would like to thank the festival committee, Blackrod Cricket Club, our sponsors, the community groups, sellers and artists and the huge team of volunteers and stew- ards who made the first Festival of Blackrod happen. “Most importantly, thank you to the residents of Blackrod and beyond for embracing the vision and making the festival the success it was.” Steve Glover fromBlackrod Cricket Club awas site manager for the event. He said: “It was a great opportunity to showcase the club and its facilities in terms of both the sporting oppor- tunities we can offer to residents but also as a huge resource for the Black- rod Community to stage large scale events showcasing local businesses and artistic talent. “This was our first such event but we are committed to working with BTC to establish the festival in the community calendar every year going forward building on what we achieved this year.” FESTIVAL OF BLACKROD PICTURE SPECIAL VILLAGE PEOPLE Photo credit: Ian Aldcroft