FESTIVAL FEVER IN THE COMMUNITY

Last weekend (30th June-1st July) saw two local community festivals take place in the area - with Heald Green Festival on the Saturday and Gatley Festival taking place on Sunday. Local Cheadle MP Mark Hunter was present at both of the festivals and was joined by Councillors Iain Roberts, Pam King and Keith Holloway at the Sunday event.

Despite mixed weather, large crowds turned out for both of these well established local events.

Each festival had its carnival parade, hosted dozens of stalls, many from local community groups including a stall at both festivals hosted by the Cheadle Liberal Democrats.

Mr Hunter toured the stalls and spoke with a number of different local groups about the work they are doing in the community. At the Gatley Festival, there was a parade with musicians and even included an Olympic Torch - brought along by local Olympic Torch Bearer Nick Crawley, who took part in the official Olympic Torch relay route in York last month.

Commenting, Mark said:

"Both of these packed celebrations give local families a great day out year after year.

"It was a pleasure to be involved in both festivals, and my thanks go to all of the volunteers who helped organise and run the weekends' events.

"Just weeks away from the Olympic Games, it was particularly special this year to have a genuine Olympic Torch present at Gatley Festival on Friday, which was kindly brought along by local Torch Bearer Nick Crawley.

"Well done to all those involved!"