There was a spot or two of rain along the way, but the smiles outshone the showers and made for a fun-packed day out.

Stallholders were out in force, selling everything from sandwich toasters to Power Ranger toys.

And children were squealing with delight as they rode the carousels and rides.

Following last year's disappointment, when the festival was cancelled at the last minute due to the soggy conditions, everyone was determined to make this year's event extra special.

Among the attractions was the chance to have an Indian head massage. There was line dancing, live music, rodeo bull riding and even sumo wrestling.

The event, in the grounds of Chaucer School, off Halifax Road, is organised by the Parson Cross Community Development Forum and has been a huge hit over the past few years, drawing crowds of around 10,000 people.

As well as all the fun there were information stalls offering people advice on stopping smoking, on healthy living and even how to start up a small business.

Barbara Ashton, a fundraiser for the Friends of Manor Lodge, was dressed in Victorian maid costume for the day as she manned the stalls raising cash for their restoration fund.

She said: "Last time I was out in the elements so I am really pleased that this year I managed to wangle myself a place in a nice, dry marquee."

David Blunkett MP, who represents the area, was one of many enjoying the day, along with local councillor Jill Furniss.

He said: "Last year was a washout because of the floods. I suggested that perhaps this year we should have a Noah's Ark theme! But instead they have gone for the opposite and have made grass skirts and hula hoops.

"Ten years ago there was no Parson Cross festival. But it has been built up into something that really matters to this community.

"It is a terrific example of community self-help. People are saying 'We are going to turn around our community'.

"We have secured Government money, learning and skills money and things are beginning to get better."

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