PEOPLE in Stretford will be welcoming in spring at a free family event - The Longford Park Festival which takes place on Sunday.

Between 1pm and 6pm people will be able to enjoy a varied line-up of music and dance, including an appearance from the renowned singer/songwriter Helen Watson.

Helen's style encompasses blues, soul, jazz and folk and has made her a firm favourite on the folk club circuit.

There will also be music from the Cajun Specials, drumming and dance from the Abasindi African/Caribbean

Women's co-operative, Samba from local band Sambino, traditional Irish music from Longnote and dance from Egypt and Romania.

In addition there will be a number of workshops at the festival, which is being run for a second year.

The more energetic festival goers can try their hand at everything from circus skills with Quirkus to drumming with Abasindi while those looking for a more sedate pursuit can have a go at kite making, weaving and the creation of a mosaic which will be installed permanently in the park.

For those who just want to sit back and relax, there will be storytelling sessions too.