Lantern festival lights up the streets and riverside

AN ENCHANTING lantern festival lit up the streets and riverside in Stacksteads as hundreds of adults and children took part.

- BY CATHERINE SMYTH

This year, the eighth time the event has been held, was by far the best attended, so much so organisers had to delay the start to ensure everyone could collect their lanterns from Toll Bar Mill in Stacksteads.

The parade was led by Mayor of Rossendale Councillor Michelle Smith, who switched roles as she normally helps organisers Stacksteads Countryside Park Group to marshal the procession.

She said: “It is just so wonderful to see all the community coming together, the children and the young families - this is what we do so well in the Valley, this type of community event.”

The Mayor also attended one of the workshops run by artist Ruth Evans to make her own lantern.

Scores of volunteer marshals ensured the parade was held safely, including helpers from Elisha House Recovery Community in Colne.