CROWDS flocked to Holcombe Hill on Sunday (Sept 15) to see the 150th anniversary of Peel Tower marked in dramatic style.

A day of entertainment and activities organised by the Holcombe Society, with help from Bury Council, the Summerseat Players and other local organisations attracted more than 2,000 people.

Celebrations steeped in the sights and sounds of the Victorian era on Sunday included a re-enactment of the tower's opening ceremony by actors based at the Theatre Royal, Ramsbottom.

Original speeches that had been researched from historical archives were heard once again at the tower, built to celebrate the life of former Prime Minister Sir Robert Peel.

As one of Bury's most famous sons, Sir Robert was revered for his repeal of the unpopular Corn Laws and for being instrumental in the formation of the modern police force.

The performance proved popular with the hundreds who attended, including the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Councillor John Smith and his wife Coun Stella Smith.

Revellers were also kept entertained by the Helmshore and Haslingden Brass Band, whose rousing rendition of Rule Britannia could be heard as far away as Summerseat.

There was a strong police presence, with members of the Greater Manchester Police on patrol, dressed in traditional Peeler costumes.

There was also the opportunity for curious visitors to climb the steps of the tower, with certificates on sale to those who did.

Mr John Ireland, secretary of the Holcombe Society, said: "The day attracted a large crowd and we were very pleased with the response. It was all very friendly, informative and unusual.

"What was special was the way in which we managed to get quite a few different groups involved into one event and making a great success of it."

Ramsbottom councillor Barry Theckston congratulated the society on the job they had done.

He said: "I would like to thank the society for organising this event in such a short space of time. They and their gangs of helpers made it such a memorable day."