As part of Saddleworth's long-established Whit Friday celebration, more than 130 bands paraded through the villages last week.

On Friday (May 24), Saddleworth held its popular Whit Friday tradition, which sees bands compete, perform and parade through the hills. 

More than 130 bands played this time and saw the Brighouse and Rastrick Band crowned area champions, followed by Black Dyke and Faireys. 

Local honours were also given to Milnrow, Oldham Band Lees and Boarshurst.

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Meanwhile, Wardle Academy picked up the best youth prize.

The Oldham Times: More than 130 bands paraded through the village More than 130 bands paraded through the village (Image: David Morris/Paul Clegg)

Photographs show several of the bands 'on the run' from Dobcross Square through the villages.

Despite the weather, dozens of residents turned out to mark the community's special day of celebration and the much-loved tradition, starting off with the legendary 'Whit walk' to Uppermill.

There were also children's activities and a dazzling display of musical dexterity by scores of brass bands throughout the day and into the evening.

Robert Rogers, the event coordinator, featured alongside officials and helpers on the BBC Breakfast Time programme on Friday which highlighted the unique event to a nationwide audience.

The Oldham Times: Dozens of residents gathered in Dobcross to watch the bandsDozens of residents gathered in Dobcross to watch the bands (Image: David Morris/Paul Clegg)

The town's "flagship event" continues to grow every year, with bands across the country and abroad joining in on the celebrations.

Mr Rogers added: "In spite of budget cutbacks, the council have pulled out all the stops and generously covered the financial outlay for this year.

“The group is extremely grateful for this support and are very much aware of the constraints put on the council’s budget.

"The event has been tagged ‘the Greatest Free Show', and everyone had a memorable time.”

He added praise for the Oldham street cleaning team who removed litter in the aftermath of the event.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman confirmed there were no incidents reported during or in the wake of the event. 

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