Valley prepares to get in the sixties swing

FLORA BYATT ROSSENDALE’S annual 60s Festival returns for four days of fun at the beginning of next month.

The festival, now in its seventh year, is newly sponsored by Walkers Solicitors, of Waterfoot.

Fancy dress in 60s style, such as flares, tie-dye, brim hats, and everything else is encouraged.

The themed events will be taking place across the Valley from Thursday, September 5, to Sunday, September 8.

In Bacup, events will take place at The Crown Inn and in the town centre.

In Rawtenstall, get your gladrags on at The White Lion, Shepherd’s Inn, Happy Hippie, Positive Start, Blind Tiger, Rawtenstall Unitarian Church, The Whitaker Museum, Asda, Rawtenstall Conservative Club, Casked Ale, and Jacks.

In Haslingden, the Irish Democratic League, Tesco, and Haslingden Community Link with be holding events.

The Boo Theatre is Waterfoot’s designated venue, while The Hare and Hounds in Stacksteads and The Rose and Crown in Ramsbottom will both be involved.

Activities include evenings of live 60s music, karaoke, and sessions at care homes such as Sign and Rhyme and Silver Shed activities.

Positive Start and Happy Hippie will be showing art created by children, inspired by American 60s artist, Roy Lichtenstein, famous for his pop-art.

The festival will kick off with a performance by Rossendale Ukelele Band at the Rose and Crown on Thursday, and a Sign and Rhyme session at the Boo Theatre.

Bacup Flowerpot Festival will also be held over the weekend, and people are welcome to follow the trail and see the colourful creations.

Barrels at Rawtenstall Conservative Club are holding a disco and fancy dress evening and shop window dressing competitions are also taking place.

A 60s style market will be held in Bacup and Rawtenstall on Saturday.

All venues are accessible by car and public transport.