Thousands were entertained with a weekend of music and family fun as a pair of beloved events returned to Saddleworth.

Sunday's Saddleworth Show, the major fundraising event for Saddleworth Rotary and Oldham Metro, proved a hit with record numbers flocking to the event at Greenfield.

In the last three years, the team has also added WelliFest, a community music festival featuring local bands and talented young people.

And despite horrendous weather halting Wellifest on Saturday, thousands turned out in support of the ticket-only sell-out event.

The Saddleworth Show featured a musical showcase as a backdrop to the showground which was filled with a galaxy of attractions.

These included giant dinosaurs, Brazilian dancing and drumming, children’s magic shows, Punch and Judy and pony rides.

Tony Burke of Saddleworth Rotary and Frank Bolger, of Oldham Metro are joint chairs of the Wellifest and Saddleworth Show Organising Committee.

They said: “Thousand came - and what a weekend they had! Record numbers attended Wellifest creating a fantastic family and community event. 

“The festival was a huge success despite torrential rain and lightning bringing it to an early finish.

"However, the main act Manchester Ska Foundation, has agreed to open Wellifest 2023."

They continued: “Wellifest gave way to the traditional Saddleworth Show and again huge crowds came to enjoy a fabulous range of attractions from the dog show and the amazing dinosaur invasion to magic, Punch and Judy and hugely popular Country Corner, run by Dovestones WI, and musical showcase provided by Mahdlo.

“The record numbers will ensure local good causes and charities will continue to benefit from the events for the coming year. 

“Both events could not take place without the support of our volunteers and  both Rotary Clubs of Oldham Metro and Saddleworth members would like to thank all the community and groups, individuals and organisations who contributed so much to both events and  to all our sponsors and partners for their support.”

They added: “The important aspect of the weekend is to raise monies so the two Rotary Clubs can continue to support the charities and groups who are in increased needs in these difficult times.

 “But equally both Rotary Clubs are proud of the great family and community aspect of the events bringing everyone together to just enjoy a great fun weekend.”

The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Elaine Garry and Cllr Pam Byrne, chairman of Saddleworth Parish Council, with their respective consorts, were among the guests who attended the show.

Cllr Byrne said: “It was a truly marvellous  show with wonderful attractions and a really appreciative audience ready to share the fun and enjoy themselves.”