THOUSANDS of people were expected to attend carnivals being held in Bury and Radcliffe this weekend.

The Radcliffe Carnival got underway on Saturday at the Red Bank playing fields in Unsworth Street.

Silcocks Fair opened at 11am, followed by the procession and parade between 2pm and 4pm.

The parade was due to start from the fields at Unsworth Street, and go along Lowe Street, Ainsworth Road, Water Street, Blackburn Street, Pilkington Way, Stand Lane, Church Street, Rectory Lane, Spring Lane, Water Street and back to Unsworth Street.

On Sunday there will be a car boot sale at 10am, and morris dancing from 11am.

A fair will be open throughout the weekend, between 11am and 10pm Saturday and from 11am to 6pm on Sunday.

Bury Carnival also returns on Sunday after last year's absence.

The gala, which for more than 30 years had been the highlight of the town's events calendar, will be staged at the Mosses car park in Cecil Street between 11am and 4pm.

It is being sponsored by the Community Foundation for Greater Manchester, and Bury Lions Club, which has taken over the responsibility of running the event is urging everyone to go along.

Attractions include a daredevil mountain bike display and a performing dog, along with charity and commercial stalls, bands and Radio Lollipop.

There will also be ice cream and hot dog vendors.

The Greater Manchester Police crime prevention unit will also be present and local car dealers have been invited to put their new vehicles on show.

The Mayor of Bury, Cllr Wilf Davison, will officially open the carnival at 11am.