More than 10,000 visitors gathered at Runcorn Hill Park to enjoy a weekend full of entertainment during this year’s Summer Fete, organised by Halton Borough Council last weekend (29/30 July)
Motorcycle stunts from Xtreme Stunt Team and aerial displays from Vale Royal Falconry was just some of the free entertainment on offer in the arena, not forgetting Denver the T Rex who kept the little ones amused.
There was even time for a mini steam engine to have a game of tug of war with the children.
Classic vehicles kept the enthusiasts happy, as people brought their proudly restored and maintained cars, wagons and military vehicles from far and wide. Circus Sensible put on free shows and even provided circus skills training for the next generation of performers.
Then on Sunday, Mikefest took centre stage with local bands and artists performing to raise funds and awareness of the devastating effects of depression and suicide. There was even a little bit of stardust on show as Max Vickers from The Voice performed.
Halton Borough Council’s Executive Board Member for Events, Cllr Eddie Jones, said: “Runcorn Summer Fete was a event everyone could be proud off, It so good to see the community working so well with Halton Borough Council to produce such successful events.”
The official opening of Runcorn Hill Park’s £2 million revamps took place last year, the day before the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations at the park.
In 2013 Halton Borough Council secured £1.3 million from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) “Parks for People” fund.
This funding supports restoration and improvement works as well as promotion, interpretation and events at Runcorn Hill Park, themed around the sites unique industrial heritage and natural history.
Capital works included a new park centre building, comprising of a Café, toilet facilities and a new car park which are now completed. The Café franchise has also created at least six full and part time jobs for local people. There is also an ‘edible plant garden’ next to the café and a forest school teaching area nearby.
The existing bowling pavilion has been refurbished and the former toilet block adjacent to the lake has been converted in to a workshop for the Runcorn Model Boat Club.