THE sun shone as a unique sporting event came to Horwich at the weekend.

Competitors took part in everything from unicycling and sprint orienteering to more traditional events like cycling and running as the town’s Festival of Racing returned for its 16th year.

The event attracts competitors not only from Horwich and the North West, but from all over the UK. Neil Brown, chairman of the Horwich Festival of Racing, said: “It has gone really well and I have heard people shouting what a great event it’s been, so I’m very pleased.

“I think the attraction of the event is its variety. It is nice to have all these different sporting activities and competitors really appreciate it.

“I am Horwich born and bred and it makes me very proud to see the event be so successful, it really shows off the town.”

Over its history the festival has attracted big names and competitors including Jason Kenny, Laura Trott, Lizzie Armistead and Dame Sarah Stoney.

One of the biggest crowd-pullers today was the National Unicycle Road Race.

Mayor of Bolton Cllr Roger Hayes was at the start/finish line in Lee Lane.

He said: “It is a super event and it is not surprising Horwich hosts something like this.

“It is a very vibrant community, a distinctive little town with its own attitude and spirit.”

The event receives sponsorship from Horwich Town Council and Bolton Council and raises money from the private sector to support the public sector donations.

Mr Brown added his thanks to all sponsors as well as helpers on the day, who made the event possible.

Many of those taking part were local boys and girls.

Barbara Ronson, president of the festival, said: “It is great to see so many youngsters taking part, they are the future of sport.”

Extra money raised on the day by selling refreshments is given to Bolton Hospice.