Norden in the carnival spirit

Norden Carnival 2013

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The people of Norden once again came out in force for their annual carnival as hundreds of people took part in the procession and hundreds more lined the streets to celebrate the 36th Anniversary of Norden Carnival.

The procession of cars, trailors, lorries and walking groups entered into the carnival spirit, decorated and dressed big, bright and colourful to the theme of 'My Favourite Story', left Caldershaw School at 1pm and snaked up Edenfield Road through the village to the Bus Terminus and then returned turning down Shawfield Lane to finish at Norden School.

At the school, there was a selection of food and refreshments, fairground attractions, bouncy castles, craft stalls and other entertainment and activities throughout the afternoon.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Rochdale, Peter and Monica Rush, Jim Dobbin MP and Norden Councillor Peter Winkler took part in the procession.

Mayor Rush clearly enjoyed himself, he said: "A wonderful carnival; it was great to see all the young people coming up and talking to us. Community involvement was excellent again; it’s what it’s all about, smiling happy people.

"I went to school at Norden where the carnival finished, and it was nice to be back on my old stomping ground. It was very pleasurable, myself and the mayoress loved it."

Jim Dobbin MP said: "Congratulations, and huge thanks, to the Carnival organisers for a very well organised and enjoyable event. The weather was surprisingly pleasant and but for a few drops of rain the Carnival parade was a happy, care free event.

"A huge crowd turned out to enjoy the childrens’ and adults’ stalls. Music was supplied by a pipeband which led the parade; as a Scot I always enjoy marching behind a pipe band!"

Councillor Peter Winkler said: “Norden Carnival is always a fantastic community event but this year has been better than ever.

"Being in the procession gives you a totally different viewpoint, and it was abundantly clear that this was being enjoyed by everyone.

"The organising committee deserve huge credit for the months of hard work that have gone into organising today’s festivities, which raise funds for lots of other local groups and good causes."

Police officers from Rochdale North team were involved in the policing of the Carnival - Rochdale North Inspector Umer Khan said: "This was a well organised and well attended event. It promoted all that is good about Norden and Rochdale.

"I want to thank Rachael Blackburn and the organising committee for all their efforts."

Carnival organiser, Georgina Jones, said: We're delighted with the turnout at this year's carnival, despite the weather. It was great to see more floats and all the community get involved.

"Congratulations to The Bridge on winning the best float, they really went to town.

"Let's hope it inspires even more to get involved next year."