COMMONWEALTH gold medallist Diane Modahl will launch Looping the Loop, a fun-packed afternoon of live music, sport, film screenings, dance and drama performances for all the family taking place around Old Trafford Stadium and The Quays this Saturday May 19.

Celebrating the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games Time in the North West and coinciding with the beginning of the Olympic Torch Relay in the UK, Looping the Loop promises everything from a free peek at the world-famous pitch at Old Trafford to an incredible whirling dervish dance performance.

Following the launch at Old Trafford stadium at 12.30pm, you can follow the Looping the Loop trail all the way to The Quays. Along the loop, there’ll be plenty to entertain everyone. Young folk can enjoy BMX bike riding and roller skating displays, an inflatable football pitch and freestyle footballer, as well as lots of creative activities throughout the afternoon. Families can also visit the new Promenade Park, on Trafford Wharfside, complete with slide. And if you’re not already in the party mood, the Together Festival at the Imperial War Museum North offers something for everyone, with over 30 artists and bands performing live. The museum is also home to storytelling and activities for the kids through the day.

If it’s water sports you’re looking for, the Universities of Salford and Manchester will go head to head in the annual Two Cities Boat Race, with nail-biting races from 12.30pm-3pm, or you can even take to the water yourself for sailing tester sessions and cruises!

The afternoon will culminate with a spectacular moment at the waterside, produced by internationally-renowned artists Walk the Plank. The finale, featuring synchronised canoeing and aerial performances, will unveil an Olympic-inspired artwork on the Lowry footbridge which will remain there for the duration of Games time.

There’ll be food and drink available throughout the afternoon, and getting to the event couldn’t be easier, with Metrolink stations and plenty of parking nearby. For more detail about getting to Old Trafford and the Quays and facilities available on the day, view the full event programme at http://www.loopingtheloop.co.uk/flyer2/flyer2.html Come down and celebrate the Games with your friends at Looping the Loop!

For more information about Looping the Loop, visit http://www.nwfor2012.com/