Families have a ‘blooming’ good time at Picnic in the Park

THOUSANDS of people checked out Chorley's Astley Park on Sunday and enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon at Chorley Council's annual summer event, Picnic in the Park.

Astley Park came alive with laughter, music and games as families enjoyed picnics with live entertainment on the Rock FM stage from the very popular Mr Bloom from CBeebies, children's entertainer, Tricky Mickey, up and coming artists Chris Atkinson, Hana Joy and District 12, plus the entertaining Mr Zip of Britain's Got Talent fame.

Children also took part in circus workshops, had a go at traditional games like bowls, golf and tennis, tested their foosball skills, took up the Xplorer orienteering challenge and got all artistic with help from Lancashire Adult College.

There was also free face painting, balloon modelling, the launch of the new Somme 100 exhibition in the Coach House and Astley Hall had hundreds of people through the historic doors throughout the afternoon.

Deputy Leader of Chorley Council, Councillor Peter Wilson, said: "Picnic in the Park is one of our most popular events and it was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the brilliant atmosphere and entertainment in the beautiful surroundings of Astley Park.

"Mr Bloom and his vegetables were a big hit with the crowd who had travelled from across Chorley as well as from surrounding towns like Wigan, Bolton, Preston and Leyland.  All of the acts and activities were fantastic and gave plenty of families another great day out in Chorley.

“With these great events and the excellent visitor attractions we have in the borough, Chorley is attracting thousands of visitors to the area.  We’ve got even more events planned this year, like the Chorley Flower Show, Playday, another Theatre in the Park performance, Chorley Live and Christmas and I would definitely recommend that you check them out if you haven’t done so already.”

Picnic in the Park is just one of the many events organised by Chorley Council to give local people and visitors a great day out in Chorley.  For more inspiration and ideas for a great day out, check out Chorley’s new online visitor information centre, checkoutchorley.com