ONE of Bolton's most spectacular annual showcase events of the year promises to be bigger and more colourful than ever.

More entertainers have been booked to appear throughout the Victoria Street Fair weekend than ever before, laying down a challenge to potential stallholders to match the variety.

The fair takes place on the August Bank Holiday Monday, and organisations, charities, companies and groups wanting to stand at it are urged to act quickly if they want to play a part in the colourful event.

Activities begin on Saturday, August 23, with entertainment ranging from familiar favourites such as the Banjo Men through to the adventurous Bernie Bennett, king of the low wire.

The fun continues on Monday, August 25 - when Le Mans Crescent is transformed into a hive of Victorian activity.

Further street entertainment takes place the following Saturday, August 30.

Bands of all shapes and sizes are due to take part, including the marching, brass and steel varieties.

There will be comedy, clowns and even a Punch and Judy Show for youngsters. Big Rory and Morag will be joined by a colourful array of strolling players who will entertain all around the surrounding streets.

A Gavioli 89 key organ will also provide a colourful addition to the fair.

Stallholders, who usually enjoy a busy day, are offered an incitement to join in the fun - with £5 refunds offered to all those whose staff wear Victorian costume.

An additional challenge is being made to stallholders to be creative. Organiser, Denis Priestley, said: "Instead of the usual games of chance we are asking people to use their imagination and to come up with something a little different. We want to make this the biggest, brightest and best of all the Victorian Street Fairs we have held."

Anyone interested in taking part should write to The Festival Office, c/o Central Library, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton BL1 1SE, or telephone 382627.

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