IT was a cast of thousands as Festival Manchester came to a close at the weekend.

More than 5,000 delegates took part in 75,000 hours of community service throughout Greater Manchester.

As reported last week, a number of local projects benefited from the help of volunteers as part of Festival: Manchester and the Greater Manchester Police Make a Difference campaign.

And as the youngsters celebrated their hard work with a two-day concert in Heaton Park a total of 55,000 people visited the venue over Saturday and Sunday (Aug 30-31).

The event featured entertainment from the London Community Gospel Choir, The Tribe and singers TobyMac and TAIT.

Big Brother winner Cameron Stout made an appearance and special guest was Christian communicator, Louis Palau, from America.

Other highlights included a purpose built skatepark, classic car show and international food court.

And pictured showing his skills at rollerskating is Jonathan Brenner, from Rhodes.

Sally Thornton, co-ordinator for Prestwich and Whitefield Methodist circuit and Prestwich Council of Churches, said: "What a brilliant week we've had and the two-day concert was great! I have never done anything like this before but, in co-ordinating a number of agencies like Greater Manchester Police, tenants and residents associations, Groundwork Bury, the area boards and the faith community of the churches in Prestwich and Whitefield, we have all worked together towards a common goal, where regeneration of our towns and cities is vital and necessary."