GUESTS took to the big top for a circus spectacular full of fun and wonder for Action Oldham Fund’s annual charity ball.

Dozens of them braved the wintry onslaught on Saturday night to attend the Spring into Action Ball fundraiser at Hotel Smokies Park which generated an incredible £6,000 for local causes.

The circus theme - which was played out with a live Skylight Circus show and opportunities for people to try out their own juggling and spinning skills - was an apt one for the charity which helps out a huge range of different organisations every year.

Action Oldham’s fund development officer, Susan Pownall, said: “The circus is a place of fun and entertainment, a world of wonder and magic, it also grew in reputation as a place of great diversity.

“Diversity is very important to us here at Action Together. Through the Action Oldham Fund grants we support a wide variety of good causes and smaller projects right here in Oldham. From youth initiatives raising aspirations, to older people’s groups combatting isolation.”

Manchester based business SD Waste paid for a table for 10 people from local community groups to attend.

Alex Smith from the Chatty Café Scheme - a group that works to reduce isolation - took one of the free tickets.

He said: “It was fantastic to be given a ticket to the ball, as a new social enterprise it was brilliant to meet other community organisations.”

Action Oldham Fund ambassador Connor Hall said: “The team at Action Oldham promised us the night would be amazing, and they certainly didn’t disappoint.

“We love to support the guys at Action Oldham because we understand the power of people. The volunteers that Action Oldham support make such a huge difference within their community, however they need as much support as possible and Action Oldham do just that.”

The Action Oldham team thanked event sponsors Pearsons Solicitors, Smooth Moves, Mio Care and Market Place Europe alongside drinks reception and wine sponsors Web Applications UK and Ross Care.