The magical Festival of Lights is to return to Rivington with spectacular displays and entertainment.

Rivington Heritage Trust has put on the festival since 2019, which saw the Italian Lake, the Pigeon Tower and Levers Bridge light up for two nights in March.

Last year, the show, held in October was a sell out.

This year's event is expected to be just as impressive, and will include a range of lanterns created by volunteers, music, a laser and light show, and a whole host of entertainment.

Chair of Friends of Rivington Terrace Gardens, Vanessa Ashcroft said: “Every year it is always so charming and magical.

“Everyone who comes always enjoys it, with some saying its better than Dunham Massey.

“It’s the biggest event in our calendar.

The Bolton News:

“It’s great for families to get out into nature and see the woodland lit up in the gardens and the lasers; it is truly magical.”

As many as 4,200 people bought tickets last year to catch a glimpse of the show.

Last year 30 people came to help make lanterns, and Vanessa says that even for those who may not think they have the creative talent, they leave believing they are creative.

The festival is part of a wider project focused on restoring and showcasing  the historic Rivington Terraced Gardens, which Vanessa says has a huge impact on the well-being of residents in the community.

Much of the work aims to make the space safe and accessible and pathways clear.

She added: “It’s a lifeline for volunteers and a life saver for their mental health.

“It’s good for the biodiversity and woodland.

“It’s gorgeous and it’s free, and gives people access to green spaces.

“We try to reach people who may also feel isolated.”

The Bolton News:

This year’s show will take place across three days from October 26-28.

And the Rivington Heritage Trust has set a fundraiser up to help with the restoration work, as well as helping to pay for the festival and keep ticket prices low.

Those interested can pledge £2 and upwards, which will enter them in a draw once, giving 30 people a chance to win four tickets each.

Vanessa added: “It means it can make the event more accessible to people and even better.

“This could help us also get a minibus to help those with mobility issues.

The Bolton News:

“Access up the hill will be provided for those who need it.”

If the fundraiser proves successful it could mean that they receive backing from the Crowdfund Lancashire Initiative.

Find out more about the "SpaceHive" project and make pledge here (www.spacehive.com/rivington).

Tickets can be bought here (www.rivingtonterracedgardens.org.uk) and more information is on the Rivington Heritage Trust Facebook page.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.