A SPECTACULAR firework display lit the skies of Prestwich to end a weekend of celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of St Andrew's Church.

And not even the wintry weather could deter the hundreds of visitors who attended the church in Carr Clough, to commemorate its golden jubilee.

Members of the congregation began the festivities on Saturday with a special walk of witness retracing the steps of their forefathers from the site of the church in 1954.

Vicar, Reverend Lisa Battye said: "We were so surprised at the turnout and that the weather did not dull anyone's spirit. Everyone was saying they really enjoyed themselves and many people came to see what all the noise was about!"

The procession was led by former warden Stuart Burgess. He carried the cross on behalf of Warrick Clayton, who had carried it 50 years ago when the church was opened. The parade walked from behind Rainsough Scout Den in Kersal Road, where St Andrew's originally stood, to the current site in Woodward Road.

Performances from members of the Sunday school, the Rainbows, Brownies, Beavers, Cubs and Scouts, along with youngsters from the Dance Crazy group, kept the crowd entertained throughout the afternoon as a buffet lunch was served.

Saturday's celebrations came to an end with the cutting of the special birthday cake and a chorus of Happy Birthday at 3pm -- the exact time 50 years ago when the church was opened.

Bishop of Manchester Nigel McCulloch was the special guest throughout Sunday's events as a harvest festival service gave guests the chance to donate tinned goods for the homeless at the Booth Centre in Salford. That was followed by a faith lunch, where the congregation brought and shared buffet food.

An afternoon of quiet worship gave church members the chance to reflect before the fireworks and bonfire ended the weekend's activities.

Mrs Battye said: "We were so chuffed at how it went. Sunday carried on what had been a fantastic Saturday, when everyone had a lovely time."