THE story of the Pendle Witches will be used to try and attract more visitors to the area when it is brought to life on a flying visit to Manchester this weekend.

Pendle Council has linked up with The Witch Way bus company, Transdev Burnley and Pendle, to show how easy it is for Mancunians to visit Pendle.

One bus from the fleet will take centre stage in Piccadilly Gardens, in the heart of the city, between 10am and 4pm on Saturday.

Mike Williams, the council’s tourism officer, said: “The event is designed to spotlight the fascinating true story of the world-famous witches of 1612.

"That’s because this year marks the 400th anniversary of the trial and we have a huge festival planned in Pendle.”

The Witch Way double decker buses, with their distinctive witches on broomsticks and aircraft-style leather seats, go between the city and Pendle every 20 minutes with an express service.

Actors from the Pendle Witches attraction, at Blackpool Dungeon, will be performing at Piccadilly Gardens to bring the story to life.

There’ll be live music, and children can take part in fun art activities, making bats and witches’ hats, and have their faces painted.

The day will be highlighting a number of the events planned for the Pendle Witches Festival this summer, including charity walks, art installations and a play.

Mr Williams said: “We’ve a full programme including walks, talks, art events, and exhibitions, all inspired by the Pendle Witches available on www.visitpendle.com.”