THE first Bury Carnival of the new millennium takes place at the weekend.

The gala will be held this Sunday (June 10) and as usual offers fun for all the family with lashings of entertainment, spectacles, displays and performances to delight the eye and thrill the senses.

Things will kick off at Chesham Fields at 9am and go on until 6pm and as well as being one of the town's big outdoor events this popular annual treat raises cash for needy charities. The Mayor of Bury, Councillor Paul Nesbit will perform the opening ceremony at 10-30am.

In the old days the Carnival had a major parade with floats of all shapes and sizes but, due soaring insurance costs and more traffic in the town, it was decided to centre activities on the Bury Showground at Castlecroft.

Happily the move was a success for all concerned and the event continues to enjoy a reputation as a premier local outdoor attraction with people coming from far and near. The Bury Times Newspaper Group is proud to promote the event supported by Bury Lions, Greater Manchester Police and Tower FM who will be there with their roadshow.

Meet Rob the Builder making a special guest appearance wearing his jolly yellow helmet, take in the active versatility of the West Lancashire Dog Display Team or watch American Wrestling Superstars show off their powerful skills in exciting competitions.

Think you have twinkling toes? take up the Line Dancing Challenge or take time out to see the the Thai Boxing Display or hear the Bury Music Centre Concert Band. Go Karting is something else you can have a go at.

Amongst the displays will be one by Greater Manchester Police (Bury Division) and there will be a large array of stands and stalls of all kinds too numerous to name here.

No carnival would be complete without all the fun of the fair and there will be plenty of rides to choose from on the day.

Look out for Old Macdonalds Farm, the World's Biggest inflatable, a sure fire winner!

There will be refreshments of all kinds and a beer tent where you can quench your thirst and meet up with friends and relatives.

Your suggested donation for all this entertainment is £1, proceeds to Bury Lions, but of course if you can afford more and want to help worthwhile causes your cash will be much appreciated and put to good use.

So make Sunday your funday and follow the Bury Times Group of Newspaper's lead in having a good time while helping others.