Not even the a rain shower before midnight could deter revellers from ringing in the New Year as party goers filled the Town Centre for an evening of entertainment.
Circus Jim demonstated his fire breathing skills whilst Revolution Radio’s breakfast host and ex-Hacienda DJ Elliott Eastwick was joined by Kelly Llorenna, who set the stage alight with her energetic stage presence, performing the memorable club classics that made her famous.
Dance diva Kelly’s vocals on N-Trance’s 1995 number two hit ‘Set You Free’ helped make it one of the most memorable club hits of the decade. Her other chart hits include ‘Da Ya Think I'm Sexy’, Flip N Fill’s ‘True Love Never Dies’ ‘Heart of Gold’ and ‘This Time I Know It's For Real.’ In 2008, she was named ‘Dance Artist of the Year’ at the Disco International awards.
As the Town Hall clock struck midnight, the crowd cheered the dazzling fireworks that lit up the sky above the Rochdale Exchange Shopping Centre.
The celebrations also continued at the town’s indoor venues with KoKo Kobana Lounge offering prizes for the best fancy dress. The Flying Horse was packed with people enjoying two floors of free entertainment, including rock/pop covers group, The Tony Marshall Band.
Partygoers in The Empire enjoyed classic tunes like ‘Tragedy’ whilst those in Yates’ barely had enough room to dance to tracks, including Ultrabeat’s Pretty Green Eyes and Summer Lovin’ from the Grease soundtrack.
Earlier in the afternoon Revolution Radio DJ Barry entertained the families with games and prizes, and Skylight Circus stilt walkers paraded the area and held a circus workshop. Face painting and childrens rides were available, along with food and drink from Quirky Catering. A childrens firework display was held at 5-30pm and received appaluse and cheers afterwards.
Mark Foxley from Rochdale Town Centre Management said: “The two firework events in Rochdale town centre were another reason for people to come and celebrate the New Year in style. The crowds exceeded our expectations, both firework displays were amazing, and we hope to be able to build on the event each year”
04 Jan 2017