A FAMILY-FRIENDLY festival is set to return to Rainford for the eighth time next month.
After seeing the success of small community festivals in neighbouring areas, Phil and Tara Thomas had the idea to bring a similar, family-friendly event to their home village in Rainford.
With a focus on creating a family atmosphere and providing something for all ages, the festival is a non-for-profit Community Interest Company and raises money for Rainford Rangers Football Club, Rainford Cricket Club, Rainford Tennis Club, and Rainford Boys Brigade and Girls Association.
With the help of a handful of volunteers, the festival has grown to accommodate crowds of almost 3,000 people, and the eighth 'Picnic in the Park' is set to take place on Saturday, June 1.
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Located at the Jubilee Playing Fields on Church Road, this year's festival will see 'Boyzlife' headline the event, who will play a combination of classic tracks from Boyzone and Westlife.
Ben from 'Phats & Small', singer-songwriter Belle, 90s star Lolly, and St Helens based DJ Eric McKenna will also play at the event, as well as cover bands 'Guns or Roses' and 'Parka Monkeys'.
The festival will also host food and drinks stalls, including local Italian restaurant Little Italy, as well as fairground rides and activities for the kids.
Organisers also allow guests to bring their own alcohol to keep the costs down, but ask for donations to be directed towards Rainford's local sports and community clubs.
With almost £70,000 being raised over the past eight years, Phil said that there has been a great atmosphere at previous 'Picnic in the Park events, which is what encouraged him and Tara to launch the new 'Pulse festival' set to launch in Sherdley Park this July.
Speaking about the event, Phil said: "Picnic in the Park has always been a unique and family-orientated festival, and it seems to have grown and grown each year.
"There is always a great atmosphere at the festivals and we're really happy to have raised so much money for the sports and community clubs, which has gone toward new facilities.
"It does seem to bring the community together and we hope to carry this on for many years to come."
For more information about 'Picnic in the Park', you can visit this link.
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