One of the mostly highly anticipated festivals in Bolton’s calendar made a triumphant return this weekend.

Made in Manchester Festival was back at Bolton Arena in Horwich on Saturday June 8.

The festival celebrates Greater Manchester’s rich musical heritage with an array of tribute acts honouring some of the region’s biggest bands from over the years.

A statement from the organisers said: “Another amazing day of music in the sunshine!

“We hope you all had a fantastic time.

Festival goers enjoying the atmosphereFestival goers enjoying the atmosphere (Image: Henry Lisowski)

"Thanks to all the top bands, artists and DJs for their amazing music!

“And thanks to every single person involved in putting this on

“See you in 2025!”

A variety of acts wowed the crowdsA variety of acts wowed the crowds (Image: Henry Lisowski)

This year’s acts continued in the festival's now-established tradition of hosting tributes to Manchester’s most famous musicians and bands.

Sponsored by Carr’s Pasties, hosted by Bolton FM’s Andy Hargreaves and with the Bolton News as official media partner, the event maintained a distinctly Boltonian flavour.

Members of Andy's Man Club at the festivalMembers of Andy's Man Club at the festival (Image: Henry Lisowski)

It also featured a range of food and drink stalls, a fun fair, a VIP area and much more.

But as ever it was the music that proved to be the biggest draw.

Made in ManchesterMade in Manchester (Image: Henry Lisowski)

Headlined by Resurrection of the Stone Roses, the Made in Manchester bill also featured The Oasis Experience, These Smiths and the Appy Mondays.

Festival goers also enjoyed the Take That Experience and James tribute band Laid.

Bolton Hospice volunteers at the festivalBolton Hospice volunteers at the festival (Image: Henry Lisowski)

But non-Mancunian musical legends were also given their due, with Coldplay tribute act Cloneplay found high up the bill along with Ed Sheeran and George Ezra tribute Tom White.

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The annual event, run by Rob Brierly, has proven to be a hugely popular fixture on the Bolton calendar since its inception in 2019.

Having been forced to take a break during the pandemic, the festival has been back in full effect for the last few years.

When the event returned from its pandemic-enforced hiatus in 2021 more than 1,000 people attended and it has only grown in popularity since then.

Now with yet another successful run under their belts, the Made in Manchester team say they will be hoping to come back even bigger and better next year.