A FESTIVAL that celebrates Burnley’s waterways is to expand this year.

The fifth Burnley Canal Festival, which takes place on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal next month, will now stretch out from its home in The Inn on the Wharf, to the newly-regenerated Sandygate Square and Finsley Gate Wharf.

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Since its creation in 2012 by its dedicated volunteer committee and support from Burnley Council, Canal & River Trust and other community organisations,  the festival has brought thousands of people to the canal to celebrate the importance of the region’s waterways.

Starting at the square, participants will be able to discover a variety of food, craft-making stalls, art and performances from groups such as ‘Folk Dance Remixed’ and ‘More Music’.

Navigating to the Inn on the Wharf in Manchester Road, a fleet of vibrant barges will set sail down the canal.

On dry land, sideshows including Punch and Judy and an insect circus museum will entertain the crowds.

Arriving at Finsley Gate Wharf, visitors will be able to enjoy a series of art installations, including the ‘Exbury Egg’, a giant wooden capsule created by Stephen turner.

Laurie Peake, director of Super Slow Way, said: “The fifth Burnley Canal Festival is the most ambitious yet, bringing two days of activity and entertainment to the historic heart of Burnley.

“So much has changed since it was built and the canal is now a focus of relaxation, nature, regeneration and culture.

“It’s a space for everyone to enjoy and the festival performers, artists, participating residents and visitors will no doubt be surprised by what they find here.”

This year the canal celebrates its bicentennial anniversary.

Blackburn held a canal festival last weekend with 5,000 gathering at its banks.

Leader of Burnley Council, Cllr Mark Townsend, said: “It is important to celebrate an important part of the region’s heritage.

“I have been really pleased with the turnout in previous years and I welcome the return of another festival.

“It is great to see so many people get behind the canals, they helped this town thrive in the coal and milling era.

“As that helped shape what the town has become today and we should be proud of our past.

“It’s good to see it’s growing and becoming more popular every year.”

The festival will start on Saturday, August 27 and finish on Sunday, August 28.