THE sun cam out to bathe the Altrincham Festival parade and showground in sunshine, as festival fever took over the town.

Thousands of people lined the streets to watch the colourful parade and enjoyed the wide array of attractions at the showground, on Saturday.

The feast of entertainment laid on ensured the Ruby Festival - it was launched in 1977 - marked its anniversary in style.

The 50-strong parade headed through the streets of Altrincham and Timperley to the showground, to get the day off to a vibrant start.

Altrincham festival chairman, Neil Taylor, said: "The day started rather cloudy and grey, but that did not last long - and by late morning we had wall-to-wall sunshine.

"The fantastic weather really helped to make our Ruby year celebrations that bit special.

"With around 50 entries in our grand parade, it was all a splash of colour and sound as the parade made its way from Altrincham town centre through Timperley Village an on to the show ground.

"Everyone that took part had made a terrific effort with the floats and entries - it really was something to see.

"A sea of people followed the parade on to the showground and, as far as you could see, there were thousands of people.

"We estimate that around 15,000 took part on Saturday, the people in the parade, those watching, and the visitors that came to the show ground."

A highlight on the showground was the Above and Beyond trapeze act.

Neil said: "The crowds were in awe as they watched this stunning display."

Onyx Dance and Jannik Dance showcased their skills while the Breaston Highlanders in the main arena and they provided a wonderful display of colour, sound and marching.

There were stalls and entertainment throughout the day, with Trafford Pride taking part for the first time.

Neil added: "I would like to say a massive thank you to the Altrincham Festival Committee who work tirelessly for a year to put on the the biggest free show in Trafford.

"Thanks also to our volunteers and marshals that helped us to make our Ruby Year such a success. Well done everyone.

"Its been a magnificent 40 glorious years."