A WONDERFUL time was had by all who flocked to Hawkshaw's annual village gala at the weekend. Bad weather on Sunday didn't dampen the spirits of those who turned out for the two-day extravaganza, which was opened by the celebrity presenter of ITV's "Bullseye", Jim Bowen.

In keeping with 23 years of tradition, a procession led by the Dobcross Youth Band marched through the village on to the recreation ground to mark the start of the family fun day. Attractions, of which there were many, included a Viking display, live Irish music by Saving the Turf, children's entertainment by Rob Falcon, and a variety of stalls and side shows.

Mr Andy Dale, a member of Hawkshaw Village Trust, commented: "Saturday was beautiful. The weather was fantastic and everything went as planned. We had quite a number of visitors from the area and outside. Unfortunately, Sunday was a wash-out. It absolutely poured down, and of course we could not have anything on the field, so we moved as much as we could into the marquee."

Special guest Jim Bowen wasn't afraid to blow his own trumpet! Pictured with him are his co-presenter on BBC Radio Lancashire, Sally Naden, and (from left) Hannah McGuffie (17) and Rachel Smith (12) of the Dobcross Youth Band.

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