Cosplay Parade was first of its kind in Earlestown

The parade was organised by Iconz, a Rock and Geek merchandise shop in Earlestown. 

Karen and Steve Ainsworth opened their store in 2019 on Bridge Street, however, business didn’t take off until they moved onto Market Street.

Karen said: "We opened on Bridge Street, and it was very quiet, the footfall.

"Something came up here on Market Street which was a lot better for the business because it’s a lot busier, but the shop was really small, and we needed something a bit bigger so we’re here now."

Steve added: "It’s improved since we’ve moved to a bigger shop. A lot more people have started to know we’re here."

The shop sells all sorts of merchandise, including products from hit TV shows and classics such as Harry Potter

The pair opened their business following Steve’s experience in working Comic Conventions, and used their resources to host the very first Cosplay Parade in Earlestown. 

The parade was a part of Family Fun Day, the first event organised by Earlestown Thrive, and saw businesses in the town centre join forces to host the occasion.

The Cosplay parade was one of the main attractions of the day and saw many members of the community turn up in a costume themselves.

Full time Cosplays were also at the event

Steve said: "They’re really popular, and as soon as we announced it, we got a really positive response. People were just really looking forward to it because the town hasn’t had anything like it before.

"The main thing for us is the effort people made and the ones that took part. People were talking about it for weeks and they didn’t let themselves down."

Karen added: "We were amazed. It was really nice to see the Market Street busy. It reminded me of back in the day when it used to be bustling all the time. It was lovely.

"A couple of businesses have said it’s like the best Saturday they’ve had.

"A lot of people have asked when we’re having another one. That was like the biggest compliment, so hopefully we can build on it."