THE 1996 Atherton Festival is set for May. And the May 11-19 romp boasts a wide range of activities. But there is still room for more.

And there is still plenty of opportunities for local charities and groups to rent stalls in the Jubilee Hall for their personal promotions.

The event starts in the Jubilee Hall on May 11 (10am-1pm) with a Festival Market, and anyone wanting to rent a stall can contact the minister at Chowbent Chapel, Rev Peter Hughes.

On May 12 (7.30pm) there will be a concert in Chowbent Chapel, while Formby Hall will be the venue for a schools choirs festival on May 13 (7pm).

And for local history enthusiasts, or merely the curious, there will be the chance to take a tour around Alder House on May 13 and 15 (1pm).

On May 12 (2pm) in Atherton Library there will be the chance to see the town as it once looked with a presentation of slides of old Atherton.

On May 15 (7.30pm) the Garrett Theatre group will be presenting 'Songs from Broadway' at the Formby Hall...a bright and breezy evening of music is assured.

Chowbent Chapel will be the venue for a Flower Festival on May 17 (2-5pm) with the event continuing May 18 (9.30am-5pm) and May 19 (noon-4pm).

Also on May 17 there will be a Carabet Dinner in the Formby Hall for those who like a special occasion. Tickets are £20 each and can be ordered through Mr Hughes.

On the last day of the Atherton Festival, May 19, there will be a Festival Songs of Praise starting at 3pm in Atherton Baptist Church and a Brass Band concert (7.30pm) in the Formby Hall.

Mr Hughes said: "I would be glad to hear from any groups or individuals who want to get involved in Atherton Festival and who want to support it in any way, whether by helping out, selling tickets, volunteering their time or giving support in any way.

"The Festival is important to Atherton and last year we gave over £1,000 to local charities which was raised through festival work."

Anyone wanting to book stalls or help can contact Mr Hughes on 01942 883268.

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