THE seventh annual Stockton Heath Festival attracted thousands of people to the village and surrounding areas during four days which were packed with music, theatre, comedy, visual arts, workshops, culture and much more.
Events took place at 15 venues across the village and the neighbouring villages of Appleton, Grappenhall and Stretton.
There was something for everyone, young and old – and many events were free.
The festival kicked off last Thursday, (July 3) with stories for children at Stockton Heath Library. Other events included a primary schools concert at Hillcliffe Baptist Church, Appleton, Warrington Male Voice Choir and the Bridgewater Singers at St Thomas’s church and the play “Peasouper” by Stockton Heath Methodist Dramatic Society.
On Friday there was a history talk “Warrington at War” at Appleton Parish Hall, bowling taster sessions for the over 60s at Alexandra Park, Magic of the Musicals at Bridgewater Upper School and the Swing Commanders at the Festival Marquee.
Saturday saw a sports fun day at Stockton Heath Primary School, a Puppet Parade at the Scout Hut, model railways at Grappenhall Community Centre, The George Formby Society performing in the Main Marquee, Open Air Theatre at the Park Royal Hotel by Oddsocks theatre group, a folk concert at Appleton Parish Hall and a concert by tribute band Fake That in the Festival Marquee.
Sunday events include boat trips on the Bridgewater Canal, a mini family circus, Festival Songs of Praise at St Thomas’ Church and a concert by soul singer Diane Shaw and her live band in the Festival Marquee.
Some events spanned several days, including the arts, crafts and farmers market and Music and Dance on the Festival Field and an art exhibition at St Thomas’ Church which ran throughout the festival.
The festival was sponsored by a number of local firms, Stockton Heath and Appleton parish councils and other organisations.
Pictures show (from the top) scarecrows awaiting judging, the Kinghts of Tourney, compere Steve Lewis, a local choir performing on the Festival Field.
