Town centre celebrations planned to welcome the New Year

There will be two firework displays on New Year's Eve in Rochdale town centre

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New Year’s Eve in Rochdale town centre is shaping up to be another cracker - the day will feature two firework displays together with family entertainment in the afternoon and a live orchestra performing at night on the Esplanade.

Two separate displays will light up the sky – one at 5.30pm designed for families and the second at midnight to ring in 2018.

On Sunday 31 December there will be children’s rides from 2pm to 5.30pm, a family disco hosted by Revolution 96.2 and circus performances from Skylight Circus Arts. Food and drink will be available and at 5.30pm there will be a firework display suitable for young children.

Then from 10pm the night time entertainment kicks off on stage, with sets from Revolution 96.2 and ex Hacienda DJ Elliot Eastwick. He will introduce a live performance of big band and swing classics from The Surburban Swing Orchestra before the second dazzling firework display as Rochdale Town Hall clock chimes midnight for the start of 2018.

The Surburban Swing Orchestra specialise in big band and swing, covering numbers from artists including Count Basie and Michael Buble. With the vocals of Lisa Lawton, Julien and special guest Paul Taylor.

After the fireworks, entertainment continues in the town's indoor venues, including Irish rock band 'The Scattering' at The Flying Horse and an 80’s Theme Night at The Empire.

Food and drink will be on sale.

Councillor Janet Emsley, the council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods, community and culture said: “New Year’s Eve is always special in Rochdale and there will be entertainment for everyone, a perfect opportunity to come into town for a meal and to drink a toast to 2018. There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the area, many offering good views of the fireworks.”

Jayne May, from Rochdale Town Centre Management, added: “These attractions in Rochdale town centre are another reason to come and celebrate the New Year in style. Both firework displays will be amazing and with the family display it means younger ones don’t miss out.”

• More details on New Year’s Eve in Rochdale town centre