SUN soaked Leverhulme Park was packed with thousands of families over the weekend as the town staged the first Bolton Show of the new millennium.

An estimated 75,000 people filled the vast grassland area to watch a large variety of entertaining acts in the event's main arena as well as soak up the atmosphere of the fairground rides and attractions.

It was also the venue for the ever popular dog and horse shows as well as a classic car display full of gleaming, restored motors.

The Bolton Show -- recently made famous by the town's funnyman Peter Kay in his Channel 4 "documentary" series -- is one of the country's largest events and draws crowds from across the region.

This weekend was no exception as thousands gathered to watch the madcap adventures of Bozo and Zizi the clowns, a free fall parachute display, a falcon show and a dance troupe.

These were among the acts on offer in the main arena which also included a stunning display by the Royal Signals White Helmets Motorcylists complete with dangerous jumps and cross-overs.

Dorothy Keegan, a 52-year-old grandmother, said: "I come here every year because the kids love it. There's so much for them to do and take away." Volunteers from the St John Ambulance Brigade also had a great two days and managed to note the names of 75 people willing to volunteer for the organisation, mainly between the ages of 10 and 19.

John Fisher, 26, one of the recruiters, said: "It's been a great weekend. A lot of kids have been able to take a look at the ambulance and people have seen the sort of work we do.

"It's wonderful to have gathered so much interest in the group."

Nickelodeon, the children's television channel, held a roadshow and entertained youngsters with water games and prizes as part of the station's Red Hot Lobster Tour.

The children's area also contained entertainment from Phil Todd's roadshow, Rumple the Clown, Ward Alan with Roger the Dog, a circus workshop and Punch and Judy.

And close to the main arena was a popular go-karting track.

Older children congregated around the army's display, trying out the assault course and looking to see what the armed forces had to offer.

Sgt Paul Charnock, a 33-year-old from Halliwell who has been in the army for 15 years, said: "It was a bit quieter than previous years but with the sun shining and people still showing interest, it's been a worthwhile exercise."

Ice-cream, fast food and balloon sellers reported good trade as did the organisers of the various game stalls, which included the ageless coconut shy. Jim Wells, from the Bolton Lions Club, said: "It went well. Any money that we make for charity over the two days makes the event worth coming to."

Cllr John Byrne was also spotted milling among the crowds -- the first time the Cabinet Member for Culture has been directly involved in the event.

John Gilmore, who lives in Breightmet and was with his partner Sharon Massey and their three children, said his family had a wonderful time. He added: "I only live a short walk away and we often come along to the show.

"With the weather holding out it has made it a very worthwhile show."

His views were echoed by Martin Gavin, also from Breightmet and at the event with Cameron, six, Hollie, 12, Melissa, nine, and Bradley, seven months. He said: "This is our third time at the Bolton Show and it's been great.

"We plan to stay till the end."

Acting director of leisure services John Shepley said: "Thanks go to our community development team who again have delivered a wonderful weekend for the people of Bolton and all the visitors who enjoyed the fun and excitement of the many attractions."