Midsummer fun in Churchgate
8:06am Monday 22nd June 2009 in News
BOLTON came alive at the weekend as hundreds turned out to enjoy the midsummer festival in Churchgate.
The poor weather did not dampen people’s spirits as they perused stalls along the historic town-centre street and enjoyed some traditional entertainment in the grounds of Bolton Parish Church.
A shire horse took youngsters on rides along Churchgate, before being reshoed by a traditional blacksmith. Ferrets raced down tunnels in front of a large crowd.
In the grounds of the parish church, knights re-enacted battles from years gone by. A host of charities also ran stalls in the grounds and local artists displayed work inside the church.
Cllr John Wash, festival committee chairman, said: “Despite the weather, it has been fantastic. It’s been great to see so many people enjoying themselves.
“The numbers that have turned out show that the people of Bolton are very keen to take part in these events. I hope we can build on this for future years.”
The Bolton News welcomed hundreds of visitors through its doors as people came to view a special exhibition to coincide with the festival, looking back at the newspaper since its inception in the 19th century.
The newspaper’s librarian, Jackie Longbottom, who organised the exhibition, said: “We were very keen to take part, especially as it was on our doorstep. We were delighted to see so many people through the doors taking such a keen interest in the newspaper today, and through its history.”
A highlight of the event saw the landlord of Ye Olde Man and Scythe, John Jewitt, “executed”. He played the 7th Earl of Derby, James Stanley, who was beheaded for his role in the Bolton Massacre of 1643 during the English Civil War.
The earl spent his last night at the pub and the annual re-enactment commemorates his death.
Among those to enjoy the festival fun were the Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton, Cllr Norman Critchley and his wife, Delyse. He said: “The festival is absolutely smashing. I am delighted it’s been held and I hope it continues to grow each year.”
Chloe Barnes, aged nine, from Stoneclough, went to the festival with her grandfather Peter Layton, from Little Lever. She said: “I’ve had a really nice day. I’ve enjoyed seeing the horse and looking at all the stalls.”
Beverley Hayes, aged 54, from Great Lever, went for a day out in Churchgate with her partner, son, friend and two grandchildren. She said: “We came down especially. I’ve really enjoyed it. I love the history part of it. It has been great for the kids as well.”
Lisa Flint, aged 30, from Tonge Moor, who was with her husband Richard and son James, aged three, said: “It’s great to have something a bit different in the town centre.”
But the fun does not stop there — the festival runs throughout this week and next weekend.
Music concerts are being held in the parish church each lunchtime during the week.
And on Friday, members of the Royal Northern College of Music are presenting an evening of Victorian entertainment.
Events are planned for next weekend, including guided walks in Churchgate and a Victorian garden party on Saturday.
The festival draws to a close with a choral evensong at Bolton Parish Church on Sunday, June 28.
lucy.ewing@theboltonnews.co.uk
