Manchester City Council

Gartside gardens family fun day

Rain didn’t spoil play on Saturday as residents of Ardwick had the chance to let their hair down with the return of the annual Gartside Gardens family fun day.

The crowds flocked to the action packed day which held "something for everyone, young and old" and offered a host of free activities ranging from falconry displays to face painting and circus skills.

Over 100 aspiring premiership players of the future took part in the massively popular five-a-side football tournament in which every entrant scooped a trophy.

The matches were refereed by police and police community support officers (PCSOs) from the Ardwick and Longsight neighbourhood policing team

The event has been organised by Manchester City Council in conjunction with Greater Manchester Police and the Friends of Gartside Gardens.

Deputy leader of Manchester City Council councillor Jim Battle said:

"The fun day is a good way of breaking down barriers by engaging in the community in an informal and relaxed setting.

"Local residents had the opportunity to discuss any problems or concerns they may have about crime and disorder and representatives from the council and police shared crime prevention advice.

"The action packed day was a tremendous success and a good example of the innovative ways the council and its partners engage with the community."

Inspector Steve Palmer of the Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

"It is fantastic that this annual event continues to draw people from the neighbourhood in and I am glad the damp weather didn't dampen anyone's spirits.

"The football matches are a great opportunity for my officers and PSCOs to engage with the young people from the neighbourhood."