CROWDS turned out for a live music event to celebrate the recently installed bandstand in Padiham.

The Bandstand Celebration was held at the town’s Memorial Park this afternoon.

The event kicked off with a parade from the town hall to the park, weaving through the Padiham Greenway.

The parade was led by samba band The Manchester School of Samba which brought a carnival atmosphere to proceedings and got people young and old dancing.

Meanwhile music was provided by Odall Acoustic Duo, Burnley-born Lucy Zirins, and Chantel McGregor.

There was also fun for youngsters as well as food from East Lancashire based traders.

The event was run by Burnley Borough Council and the Friends of Padiham Memorial Park.

The bandstand was relocated from St James Street in Burnley town centre to Padiham earlier this year after the Friends group and Padiham Town Council put together a successful £30,000 bid to move it.

Carol Stinton, chairman of the friends, said: “As we walked the route with the Manchester School of Samba people were joining us. It was like the Pied Piper.

“It really made you want to get up and dance. There were hundreds of people there.

“We opened up the visitors’ centre and that was very busy. All the funds will go towards the Memorial Park.

“It was really good and well supported. It was great to see so many kids there with smiles on their faces.

Cllr John Harbour, Burnley Council’s executive member for housing and environment, said: “It was a great turnout and fantastic atmosphere with lovely weather.

“The samba band opened the proceedings and all the kids and adults joined in with the dancing.

“There was a great cross-section of all ages young and old and there were lots of kids running around.

“We have had a few events on the bandstand but this was the best turnout so far.”