HUGE numbers of people made their way to Stamford Park to enjoy the first spring family fun day in three years.
The event, originally known as Tulip Sunday, had to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic. However, judging by the size of the crowds enjoying the many activities on April 24, it had clearly been badly missed.

Visitors had the perfect chance to get together and relax in the open air as the fine weather showed off the flagship Victorian Park in all its glory. Around 2,500 people were able to make the most of the many facilities including the boating lake, the water feature, the bowling greens and the Highfield Pavilion café.
Families had lots of activities to choose from including face painting, birds of prey, crafts, music from drumming group Conundrum, walkabout acts, and an RSPCA dog show – all against a colourful backdrop of spring flowers.

Transport for Greater Manchester provided advice on walking and cycling routes, cycle training and maintenance courses. Their mechanic, Dr Bike, was on hand to fix minor faults.
There was also advice on bicycle buying along with information on clubs, shops and events, and the chance to have bikes marked so they were on BikeRegister, the national cycle database which aims to prevent theft and reunite stolen machines with their owners.
Anyone travelling to the fun day by bike was eligible for free BikeRegister membership which normally costs £12.99.
A Tameside Council spokesman said: “People were quite clearly delighted to have the family fun day back because the park was packed. The fine weather supplied the finishing touch as families made the most of the activities or just gathered on the grass for a picnic.
“It was a tremendous day. The colourful flowers and blossom on the trees served as a celebration of spring a whole and showcased Stamford Park at its very best.”