AINSWORTH Village Day is back after a three-year absence.

The traditional event, which was first held in 1979, is scheduled to take place on August 11 and will be bigger and better than ever.

A shortage of volunteers is the reason that it has not been held since 1997, but Mr Les Martin, the driving force behind this year's event, has re-energised the community.

"Since moving into Ainsworth two years ago, I have been pleasantly surprised to find good, old-fashioned community spirit thriving in the village. It's a rare find," said Mr Martin.

He added: "My interest in the Village Day started after meeting local people who reminisced about past fayres and days gone by.

"Everyone I've spoken to expressed their regret that the day ceased to be, and the seed was planted that maybe it could be resurrected."

He discussed the idea with friends and was greeted with an enthusiastic response. People soon began volunteering their services, donating prizes and offering support and sponsorship. "I set up a Village Day Volunteer Task Force, which so far has around 20 members. I may have had the initial idea to re-introduce the Village Day, but credit has to go to these people who have made it possible."

The event will be dedicated to the late Mr Carl Shepherd (41) of Plane Tree Farm, Ainsworth.

He died of a gunshot wound on July 8 after threatening to take his own life.

Mr Martin said: "He was a close friend to all the task force members and will be missed so much.

"I'm sure that during the Village Day we will all take a moment to remember this friendly, jolly and lovely man."

The event will be held at Ainsworth Recreation Ground from 11am to 6pm.

Attractions include a hog roast, a coconut shy, quad bikes, dancing, children's fancy dress, a fairground and fortune-teller Madam Savas.

It will be opened by Tommy Banks, ex-England and Bolton Wanderers footballer.

All profits will go to Christ Church Ainsworth School, Ainsworth Scholars Play Group and a fund for local good causes.