Festival pulled in record crowds

4:49pm Tuesday 26th August 2008

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MORE people than ever flocked to enjoy the Northwich Festival, which finished yesterday, Monday.

Held at Moss Farm, the annual weekend of sporting events featured everything from a strongman competition to a talent show, troupe dancing and a tug of war.

It was a huge success, attendance was up, especially on the Monday when we had about 5,000 people here.

Organiser Tim Pickering

The fun got underway on Friday evening, kicking off with a race night and barbecue in the marquee where anyone who fancied a flutter could hedge their bets of pre-recorded horse races.

Saturday saw a day of rugby tournaments followed by a Summer Sessions dance night in the evening with Amber Lounge DJ Ross Walker taking to the decks.

Troupe dancing and the Northwich Have You Got Talent competition took place on Sunday, with Rudheath High School pupil Tom Hewson winning first place for his street dancing. Lewis Thompson from Ashton-under-Lyme took second place, while Rudheath singer Carl Green, 39, came in third.

Organiser Tim Pickering said he was impressed with the standard of entrants.

“There were some really good ones in there, there was a really intense and exciting atmosphere, it was great entertainment,” he said.

Monday saw the strongman contest, with last year’s strongman winner Wayne Tunstall claiming the title once again. The 27-year-old from Ashbourne, in Derbyshire, also holds the title of London’s Strongest Man.

Nick Ashurst from Wigan was runner-up while Nick Townley from Burnley came third.

Car enthusiasts were indulged on Monday with a Motor Storm car show for modified and classic cars.

Tim Pickering said revellers enjoyed the action-packed three days, especially as the rain held off until the very end.

“It was a huge success, attendance was up, especially on the Monday when we had about 5,000 people here.

The weather was absolutely fantastic, unbelievable really. It started raining as if on cue for the final presentation but everyone braved it nonetheless,” he said.