Summer would not be summer without a traditional English garden party ­— with or without the rain.

Thankfully the heavens did not open for the annual Smithills Garden Party, which took place over the weekend.

There was plenty of fun and food for all the family to enjoy on Sunday afternoon.

Guests include Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Andy Morgan, who tried his hand at a few of the games.

Plenty of local businesses and organisations were represented at the fete, held in the grounds of the historic hall.

A spokesman for Bolton Libraries and Museum Service, which organise the annual event, said: "A massive thank you to everyone who came to Smithills Hall to celebrate our annual Garden Party.

"We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did! "

"Also, a big thank you to all our amazing stall holders and staff members who helped to put this amazing event on."

Cllr Morgan said: "We were greeted by Sam Elliott, the councils amazing Head of Service at Bolton Libraries and Museums, who very kindly accompanied us through the garden where we met lots of stall holders and volunteer organisations, followed by a quick tour of the hall.

"Smithills Hall dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest and most significant buildings in Bolton.

"Today Smithills Hall is a museum and heritage site, offering guided tours, educational programs, and special events that highlight its rich history and cultural significance.

"The “Friends of Smithills Hall”, who do so much to keep the hall going, are a volunteer group dedicated to preserving, promoting, and enhancing the Hall and gardens.

"It was established to support the hall's conservation and to ensure its historical significance is maintained for future generations and play a crucial role in keeping this historic site vibrant and accessible."

All pictures by Henry Lisowski