Thousands attend Healthier Heroes Family Fun Day at Towneley Park
More than 5,000 people flocked to Towneley Park as the Healthier Heroes Uniformed Services Family Fun Day returned for another successful year.
The popular community event brought together families, local organisations, businesses and uniformed services for a day of entertainment, activities and displays, with visitors enjoying everything from fairground rides and food stalls to military exhibits and interactive attractions.
One of the highlights of the day was a full-size replica Spitfire, which attracted crowds throughout the event. Visitors also had the chance to explore an impressive collection of military vehicles and meet representatives from a range of uniformed services and community groups.
New for this year was a dedicated entertainment stage, sponsored by Burnley Council, which celebrated the spirit of the 1940s. Performers included Christopher & The Robins, while dancers from Burnley College Juniors and the Helen Green Academy of Dance entertained visitors throughout the day.
The popular Candy Bomber attraction also made a welcome return, thanks to support from Pendle Hill Properties. Hundreds of Hershey's bars and parachute toys were handed out to children and families alongside a World War Two jeep display.
Andrew Powell, chief executive of Healthier Heroes CIC, said: “It has been an incredible event and it's equally a testament to everyone that continues to support Healthier Heroes, making days like this really special, engaging and inclusive to all.
“We are very proud to be able to offer this event to the community and it's also a way for us to say thank you. So, thank you everybody for your support.”
Coun. Afrasiab Anwar MBE, leader of Burnley Council, praised the event's success.
He said: “This year's event has been a real success. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported and helped make the Uniformed Services Family Fun Day such a memorable occasion. We look forward to seeing you again next year.”
India Whelan, estate agent at Pendle Hill Properties, added: “We were delighted to once again support the Candy Bomber attraction and be part of such a fantastic community event. Seeing the excitement on children's faces as they collected their Hershey's bars and parachute toys was a real highlight.”
Healthier Heroes CIC supports veterans and their families by helping tackle social isolation, homelessness and mental health challenges across the community.