EASTER has seen a menagerie of furry and feathered friends greeting Boltonians who braved the rain.

The spring-time showers failed to deter visitors to Middlebrook Retail Park on Friday and was even welcomed by the webbed-feet ones.

Animals from the petting farm received plenty of attention from shoppers who were enjoying five days of free Easter fun.

The family events kicked off on Wednesday with two days of treasure hunting with the Middlebrook Angels around the park followed by Hopping Mad Bunnies.

The larger-than-life rabbits were seen hopping around the retail park, cracking out chocolate egg treats from their flowery baskets.

Friday welcomed some smaller animals who received a lot of attention from enamoured visitors, with youngsters also enjoying face painting and learning about caring for the farmyard pals.

Visitors to the celebrations had the opportunity to get some keepsakes of the fun the following day, with a spring photobooth featuring Easter-themed props.

Heather Ingham, marketing manager for Middlebrook, said “We have had a number of events on since Wednesday which have all been very well attended.

“Lots of families have been having fun here.”

After a break yesterday the fun is set to continue this Easter Monday.

This time the big bunnies have been ousted for two “sassy skating birds”.

Known as the roller chicks, they will be speeding through the shops to entertain visitors throughout the day.

Children of a creative disposition can also get involved in feathered-themed craft workshops in The Mall with chances to make puppets, rocking and hatching chicks, topping off the final day of the retail park’s holiday events.