Trafford celebrates with Looping the Loop (From Messenger Newspapers)

Trafford celebrates with Looping the Loop

2:14pm Tuesday 22nd May 2012 in News

TRAFFORD kicked off London 2012 North West Olympic Games Time in spectacular style on Saturday with the launch of Looping the Loop.

The event provided 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.

Thousands joined Commonwealth Gold medallist Diane Modahl as she officially launched Looping the Loop, which coincided with the start of the Olympic Torch Relay in the UK.

As they followed the loop trail from Old Trafford football stadium through to the Lowry footbridge, the crowds stopped and enjoyed relaxing in Trafford’s newest green space, Promenade Park, also opened on Saturday by Diane Modahl.

There was BMX bike riding and roller skating displays, an inflatable football pitch and freestyle footballer, as well as a variety of creative activities.

The Together Festival at the Imperial War Museum North had more than 30 artists and bands performing live, as well as storytelling and activities for kids.

Water lovers took to the canal, trying their hand at sailing, or enjoying a leisurely cruise. The annual Two Cities Boat Race also gained significant interest.

The afternoon climaxed with a spectacular firework and whirling dervish dance finale by internationally-renowned artists Walk the Plank. Featuring synchronised canoeing and aerial performances and including the unveiling of an Olympic-inspired artwork on the Lowry footbridge, this both captivated and exhilarated the gathered crowds.