THERE will be fun and games in Atherton when the town's annual festival gets under way.

It runs from May 11 to 19 and offers a wide range of shows and activities to suit all ages.

There will be a charity market, various music performances and concerts. The highlight will be the "Grand Festival Dinner Cabaret" on Friday May 17 at 7pm.

The event will be held at Formby Hall and an evening of 'good food and top entertainment' is promised.

Multi-instrumentalist Paul Travis will compere the evening with music by Regency plus comedian Johnnie Casson.

Tickets cost £20 and are available from Atherton Library on 01942 878369.

A Charity Festival Market will be held at Jubilee Hall, Crabtree Lane on Saturday, May 11 at 10 a.m.

All the stalls will be run by local charities.

Fire brigade safety mascot Welephant and his fire engine will also be making an appearance. Z On Monday, May 13 and Tuesday, May 14 at 7pm local school children will take the stage in the Atherton Schools Concert at Formby Hall. Tickets cost £1 for adults and 50p for children.

Other bands, vocalists and instrumentalists, including Northop Brass Band and Frank and Steven Glover, will be performing at the festival.

Details and tickets for all events are available from Atherton library.

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