'THE most successful Altrincham Festival yet' took place on Saturday, July 5.

Chairman of the festival's organising committee, Cllr Tony Fishwick, said the event showcased community spirit at its best and everyone involved is to be congratulated – from the crowd, to the committee.

He said: "First of all I'd like to say a big thank you to everybody who took part.

"It's a festival by the community from the community and that really came across.

"I'd also like to thank my small but hardworking committee which are Ros Fazackerley, Julian Newgrosh, David Haxton, Gill Wootton Dawn Abbott together with Jim Findley, Alan Vernon and my wife Pam, for all the help and loyalty they gave to me which was very much appreciated by me on the day."

Unlike last year, the sun was out for this year's event which gave the day an extra boost according to Cllr Fishwick.

"One of the nicest things this year were the Thwaites shire horses. The people from the brewery dressed up in their proper livery and it was really nice added traditional element," said Cllr Fishwick.

"We had four bands all together – the Melton Mowbray Toy Soldier band, the Breaston Highlanders, the Cadishead Brass Band and a Samba Band, which were all very lively and very successful.

Cllr Fishwick said the festival had 'some really great floats this year, but the festival 'really came to life' when it reached the show ground.

As well as the traditional fair, 'Ranger Rob' had a stall where children could get up close to reptiles and other caged animals and there was a giant inflatable arena where 'Mighty Mick' and 'Terrible Ted' battled it out.

Cllr Fishwick added: "We came and put on a show and by the end of the day the ground was absolutely spotless and I really would like to thank Timperley Tidiers for that who worked tiredlessly throughout the day."

The Parade awards went to the following groups:

Supreme Entry – Simply Voices

Most Original – Martin Morgan (Campervan)

Best School – Broomwood Primary School

Best Business– Simply Singing Voices Choir

Best Vintage / Classic – Kensinton Wedding Cars

Best New Entry – Simply Cycling

Best Voluntary – Bowdon District Guiding