The hosts of Christmas past won't be putting on a show in Rainford this year
When Lancashire Life photographer Kirsty Thompson attended last year’s Festive Day in Rainford organisers were hopeful it would become an annual event in the village. But it now appears that the first celebrations were also the last and the idea has been packed away with the tinsel, baubles and fairy lights.
The event, which included festive food and traditional fun, was hailed a great success and raised �6000 for Macmillan Cancer Support. It was organised by owners of local businesses but no-one has come forward this year to take on the role.
Cllr David Grice, who helped organise the Festive Day, said: ‘It was a fantastic day and at the time everyone said they were looking forward to doing it again but sadly no-one can commit the time and effort this year.
‘It’s a great shame and I am very disappointed but we’re not saying it will never happen again. Last year was a major undertaking because it was the first one we had done, but we know the procedures now so in theory it should not be as big a task in future.’
But although the Festive Day celebrations will not be taking place this month, the spirit of Christmas will still be alive and well in Rainford and the village’s award-winning silver band will perform a carol service in the village hall on December 15th.
And talks are being held aimed at creating a heritage centre in the village. Cllr Grice said: ‘We are at a very early stage but the village is steeped in history and I would very much like to see this happen.
‘We are now looking for suitable premises and starting to raise funds but the total amount we need will depend on whether we find an existing building or go for a new build.’
Rainford has a long history of agriculture and coal mining and sand from here was used in the production of glass at nearby St Helens. The village was also a major centre for the production of clay smoking pipes.
