ALTRINCHAM Festival gets underway on Saturday (July 2) - and organisers have laid on a host of fun-packed activities for all the family.

As always, the colourful and vibrant Festival Parade kicks off the celebrations.

There are more than 50 groups lined up to take part, including marching bands, steam roller floats, both vintage and modern vehicles, and walking groups.

The parade always attracts large crowds as it comes through Altrincham and Timperley town centres. It will set off from St Margaret’s Road at 11am, making its way to the festival showground in Timperley.

Festival treasurer Tony Fishwick said: "It looks like being one of the best parades of all time."

The showground's many attractions include a wood chopping display by the Welsh Axemen, while dance fans can watch Jannik Dance and Onyx Dance giving displays in the arena.

Festival-goers can enjoy the funfair and hop onto the Family Fun Train to travel around the showground.

Children can play on a giant inflatable while their parents enjoy a cuppa at the Bob Coffee stall.

Kersal Rugby Club is holding a Walking Rugby Display.

Tony continued: "Altrincham Festival is the biggest free show in Trafford. Please show your support for this fantastic event."

Festival chairman David Gough and the festival committee are appealing for people to volunteer to help on the day to ensure everything goes smoothly. Anyone who can help should contact 0161 980 3223 or 0161 374 3296.

The festival fun continues with events over the following two weeks.

They include:

* The Kaleidoscope Big Band at Cresta Court Hotel, Altrincham, on 7.15pm on July 6. Stamford Park Festival Choir will be the special guests. Tickets £5, children under 16 £3 or pay at the door.

* Altrincham Festival Sequence Dance at the Lark Hill Centre, Thorley Lane, Timperley, at 8pm on July 8. Tickets £5, contact Connie on 0161 282 2671.

* Altrincham Golf Festival from 1pm on July 1. This will be 18 holes of golf and the entry fee is £20.

There wilL be prizes for first, second and third place and challenges for 'nearest the pin' and 'longest drive'. Call 0161 928 0761 to take part.

* Altrincham Festival Quiz - the Railway pub, Hale on July 11, 12 and 14. Call 0161 941 5367 for details.