BOLTON funnyman and television presenter Paddy McGuinness was the special guest at a family fun day.

The Farnworth-born star met fans, signed autographs and posed for photographs in the glorious sunshine at Blackrod Church Primary School, in Vicarage Road West, on Saturday.

The Mayor Of Blackrod, Cllr Pat Barrow, opened the event and spent time chatting to Paddy, who is well-known for appearing in Channel Four’s Phoenix Nights, with fellow Bolton comedian Peter Kay , and hosting ITV1 dating show Take Me Out.

Cllr Barrow said: “He was lovely. Everyone was pleased to see Paddy and it was great that he could come along.”

Hundreds of people enjoyed the activities on offer at Saturday’s event.

Children got into the saddle to ride donkeys and held owls from Smithills Broadwings Bird Of Prey Centre.

Firefighters showed off a fire engine and let visitors try on their protective clothing and helmets.

Other attractions included a bouncy castle, a chocolate fountain, go-karts, stalls selling cakes, and many other items.

Cllr Barrow said: “There was a lot going on during the day and there was plenty for children to do. There was a nice atmosphere and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. It was a lovely day and the weather was great.”

The family fun day was organised by Laurie Barlow to raise money for Bolton Hospice and Bolton’s Macmillan cancer care nurses.

The total amount of money raised for the two charities is still being counted.