CLOWNS and circus tricks kept visitors to a Greenmount school mesmerised and helped raise thousands of pounds towards making a play trail appear.

Hundreds of people flocked to the circus-themed summer fair at Greenmount Primary School.

Visitors to the school in Holhouse Lane, also enjoyed a barbecue, bouncy castle, beer tent and various stalls, helping to raise more than £3,400 for a new play trail.

Italian restaurant, Venetian Hideaway in Ramsbottom,has pledged to donate the extra cash to make up £5,000 needed to go ahead with building the play facility, which will include an adventure mound and games tables.

Headteacher Mr David Griffith revealed that the play trail will be completed for the start of the next school year.

He said: “Once again we are very grateful to the amazing work that our parent teacher association (PTA) does to help us raise much needed funds for the school.

"The children had a wonderful time.

"They particularly enjoyed soaking me with sponges whilst I was in the stocks.

“We’re sure that the children will be very excited when they return in September to explore their new play area.”

PTA member Leanne Gray said: “The weather was very good to us and there were lots of stalls and games to enjoy.

“The highlight of the day for the children was when Mr Griffith appeared in the stocks for the children to cool him down.”