AROUND 1,500 people packed out the second Proms in the Park event in Atherton on Saturday.

It took place at the Hamilton Street park from 7pm to around 11.30pm where there were performances from Tyldesley Brass Band and The New Garrett Theatre.

Anna Singer was also joined on stage by Atherton’s Royal British Legion branch members for armed forces songs. A DJ performed on the night too.

People showed their patriotic colours at the event, which was organised by the Friends of Atherton Parks group chair Natasha Hodgkinson, and brought their own tables and chairs.

Member of Friends of Atherton Parks Brian Seddon said: “It was incredible on Saturday.

"The park was heaving. I was on the main gate and when I went to the field I was gobsmacked with how many people there were.

"Everybody enjoyed it and they were dancing and waving their flags.

“The stage that was provided by Wigan Council was spectacular with the flashing lights and we would also like to thank Simon Yates from Ena Mill for his support.”

Brian expects next year's event to be "bigger and better" and said a number of people who went on Saturday have provided suggestions to make it more popular.

Fellow Friends of Atherton Parks group member Gillian Gerrard captured the festival behind her camera lens.

She said: "It was absolutely fabulous and I was captivated when I was taking pictures on the night.

"Every slight detail down to the bunting and gazebos was taken care of.

"The people who turned up made it so special by supporting the event. They dressed up in tailor made outfits and waved their flags.

"The morale at the park was brilliant. There was a strong sense of pride.

"I am already eagerly awaiting next year."

Brian Seddon and councillors Jamie Hodgkinson and Stuart Gerrard also helped to organise the event.

Brighter Borough funding was also pledged by all the Atherton and Atherleigh councillors.