Littleborough Rushbearing Festival

Littleborough Rushbearing Festival

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Littleborough was packed on Saturday afternoon for the 25th annual Rushbearing Festival and street parade.

Crowds filled the streets for a lively parade, led by Mayor of Rochdale Ray Dutton and Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk, that marched into Hare Hill Park for a day of events, including the Viking Living History Display with groups acting out a Viking sword battle.

The Whitworth Mummers took to the bandstand for a live performance and children enjoyed everything from face painting and crafts to outdoor rock climbing.

Wardle Folk Group put in a performance on the bandstand, and extra treats included Morris dancers, a children’s obstacle course, and a Punch and Judy show.

Rochdale Online Director John Kay hosted the event. He said: “This is a special day because it is not just the annual Rushbearing Festival, but it is the 25th Rushbearing Festival, and there are many exciting things in store.”

He added: “This really is a wonderful event and today was no exception.”

Organiser Steve Lister said: “Today has been a great success and a very enjoyable day.

“We have a special calendar on sale to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Rushbearing Festival. The first page shows a photograph of the first ever one held in 1991.”

Festivities are set to continue on Sunday in Littleborough Square between 11.00am - 6.00pm. The program is as follows:

• 11.00 - 12.00 Parade down Hollingworth Road, stops for dancing on the way.
  Meet Littleborough Band at the canal and parade through to the Square.
• 11.30 Littleborough Band.
• 12.00 - 18.00 Celebration of English Folk Dance.
• 15.00 Parade with small cart to Holy Trinity Church.
  Presentation of rushes.

Littleborough Rushbearing was revived in 1991 and has become an important part of Littleborough’s calendar of events.