Atherton's carnival cancelled due to coronavirus

Organisers said the decision was made with “great sadness” but vowed to return with an “even bigger” event in 2022.

The carnival, which began in 2009 and takes place at the Meadowbank playing fields, Gloucester Street, also fell foul of the coronavirus last year.

In a social media post organisers said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce there will unfortunately be no Atherton Carnival again this year due to the ongoing situation. Even though restrictions are being lifted and some things are going ahead, planning such a huge event as this is mammoth and we just cannot put things into place only to then possibly have to cancel again and so an early decision had to be reached. “

They added: “We look forward to returning next year for an even bigger carnival which I’m sure everyone will be glad to see back. For now stay safe and see you in 2022.”

The carnival has come a long way since was launched 12 years ago. It started as a parade and a few stalls at the playing fields but organisers could not afford to pay for bands. But in its 10th anniversary year in 2019, the carnival boasted a variety of bands performing in its parade before a wealth of entertainment took place on the fields.