ATHERTON Community Festival is just around the corner with a variety of events lined up.

The festival runs for two weeks to May 22 and includes two Atherton town trails with local history officer Tony Ashcroft on Monday May 10 at 2pm and Monday May 17 at 6pm.

Tickets cost £1 from the library and places are limited.

The Festival Open challenge Cup Bowling Trophy will take place on Tuesday May 11 at Atherton Park Veterans Bowling Club at 1.30pm, culminating in the finals on Thursday May 13 at the same time and place.

And a fun-packed day on Atherton Market Square is promised on May 15 with theatre, dance, music and comedy from 11am to 3pm.

A Lancashire Night with Gary and Vera Aspey will be held at St Anne's Community Hall - within Atherton Parish Church - at 8pm. Tickets cost £6, including refreshments, available from Geoff Smith on 883190.

Sunday May 16 sees Songs of Praise at Central Methodist Church, High street, at 10pm and later a brass band and concert, starring the Roberts Bakery Band, at Formby Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets on the door priced £4.50/£4 concession.

Call 01942 874292/404817 for more info.