Darwen Rotary fun day draws big crowds to town centre

Darwen Rotary’s family fun day was a "scorching success" this year, organisers said, as the sun shone down on the market square where the event was held.

Organiser Tony O’Hara declared it a rousing success, with more stalls run by charities, organisations, and crafters than ever before, and hundreds of attendees. 

The day, on Saturday, September 2, had an out-of-this-world superhero theme, and fantasy costuming group the Fifth Legion was present to add its unique colour and a sense of drama.

The family fun day was a hit, helped by glorious weather (Image: Darwen Rotary)

One of its characters, Dr Strange, judged the children’s superhero and villain fancy dress competition.

Queenie Riley, aged six, was one of the winners of the competition, with her witches outfit wowing the judges.

The day was opened by the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Councillor Parwaiz Aktar, after being welcomed the borough’s Town Crier, Darryl Counsell.

Queenie Riley, six, who won the fancy dress contest, with Dr Strange (Image: Darwen Rotary)

Darwen Brass Band played in the arena, and there was entertainment from Punch and Judy and magic shows, as well as vocal performances from Riki Lee and the Walk This Way choir. 

Face painting was a popular activity, as well as a craft tent and displays from local groups.

Mr O'Hara said: “The super weather made it.

"Everyone enjoyed the day, and the stallholders made money for their particular organisations, which is great.” 

Town Crier Darryl Counsell (Image: Darwen Rotary)

It's the latest fun day event held by Darwen Rotary, which has been operating for many years, and members work tirelessly to raise funds for good causes in the town.

For more information about the Rotary, you can visit its website.