SCORCHING temperatures and brilliant blue skies brought bumper crowds for the annual Dr Kershaw’s Hospice Summer Fair.

Hundreds of visitors flocked to the Sunday afternoon event held in the grounds of the hospice on Turf Lane, Royton.

Oldham Scottish Pipe Band set the tone for a great atmosphere by striking up the bagpipes to get the event underway.

The tartan musicians were greeted by warm applause and also gave an impromptu performance for some of the hospice’s in-patients who were able to get a close-up view through the open windows.

Dance interludes were provided throughout the day by the Suzettes and the Street Jammers whilst visitors were able to sit amongst the gardens or stroll through the myriad of stalls including the ever-popular lucky dip and tombola.

Visitors took advantage of the swanky-looking new Café K and spilled out onto the patio and into the gardens to enjoy a cuppa and delicious cakes and goodies.

The home-made and home-baked stalls went down a treat and there was plenty for youngsters including a bouncy castle, slide, a petting zoo with goats and chicks, face painting and henna.

Commercial stall holders also supported the hospice by making donations while Dr Kershaw’s own stalls helped to boost funds.

Inspiring young Kershaw’s fundraiser, Keira Arnold, who is in the running for a couple of national and regional awards for her contributions, raised almost £200 by selling her popular range of Dreamcatchers.

Vicky Stackhouse, event organiser, paid tribute to the host of volunteers who made the event such an incredible one - and to the people of Oldham for their whole-hearted support.

Joanne Sloan, the hospice chief executive, added: “There was a really lovely atmosphere to the whole day and everybody seemed to have a lovely time.”