Thousands of local people as well as countless visitors from all over the brass band world are expected to make their way to the famous Whit Friday villages this weekend to enjoy what has been called since 1884, the ‘Greatest Free Show on Earth’.

Popular

And Oldham Council has told 4BR that they are keen to ensure that through their help and financial support the 11 Saddleworth and Lees contests continue to be as popular as ever.

Highlights

Councilor Jim McMahon, Leader of Oldham Council, told 4BR: "The Whit Friday Band contests are one of the highlights of the year and are a great showcase for the borough.

The council has been working for months with the organisers and partners, such as Greater Manchester Police, to ensure that we have all the right traffic diversions, stewarding and policing arrangements in place to make it a success."

Clean up

He added: "Immediately after the event there’s also a huge clean-up operation to undertake where, working alongside an army of volunteers, we clear away street litter and empty local bins so that everything can return to normal as quickly as possible.

We are all delighted to be welcoming bands and visitors from across the country, and as far afield as Europe, to a fabulous free show."

Financial boost

It may well be free to listen to the music that is provided by the competing bands, but Councilor McMahon was keen to point out the financial benefits to the area too.

"It’s vital we all support flagship events like this because they help put us on the map and also contribute hugely to our tourism and events industry, which is worth more than £240m and supports 3,000 jobs in Oldham."

It’s vital we all support flagship events like this because they help put us on the map and also contribute hugely to our tourism and events industryCouncilor Jim McMahon

Volunteer thanks

Meanwhile, he also made sure the army of Whit Friday volunteers and helpers were thanked: "The contests are one of the biggest annual free events in the borough and the huge effort made by the contest organisers and volunteers is to be applauded.

There are always challenges and we’ve worked closely with the organisers and other parties to ensure we promote a positive image of our area and, as ever, our priority is to ensure that everyone enjoys the event in safety.

The simple message is for people to act responsibly and have a great day."

Road restrictions

Some road restrictions are in force in the area from 4.00pm until midnight on June 13th and have been signposted in advance.

Event stewards or police are also on hand at venues if motorists need help.