THOUSANDS of people lined the streets of Old Hill on Black Country Day as the town celebrated the ‘biggest and best’ ever OH Festival.

A colourful parade, a host of live bands and acts and a fun fair were just part of the entertainment which greeted the crowds on Saturday (July 14).

The free festival – returning for the 10th year – was opened by local legend Doreen Tipton and kicked off with the usual parade, with hundreds of people taking part.

This year’s parade featured the fire service marching band, young dancers, members of uniformed organisations, circus performers and even the car from Ghostbusters.

The OH Festival parade passing Holy Trinity Church in Old Hill. Video: Lee Walker

The car from Ghostbusters was part of the OH Festival in Old Hill. Video: Lee Walker

At the festival hub at Spring Meadow Social Club there were lots of circus themes acts – due to this year’s theme being ‘The Greatest Showman’ – all helping to raise money for the Salvation Army and the Royal British Legion.

Lisa Saunders, one of the organisers, said: “It was a brilliant day. There were thousands of people there and everyone had a great time.

“The acts we had on during the day – the ABBA and Meat Loaf tribute acts, the bands, the lion dancers, the stilt walkers and the acrobats and circus performers – were all fantastic.

“The parade and the festival itself was absolutely amazing and we’re so grateful to everyone who came along and took part.

“We’re going to be back next year – we just need a few days rest first!”

Elsewhere on Saturday, the Shell Corner Partnership – a community group led by the three Halesowen North councillors and Rev Mike Sermon – held a table top sale as part of the area’s Black Country Day celebrations.

During the afternoon, Lapal Community Choir performed for the community at The Shel-ter, while local businesses handed our samples of food and drink to showcase what’s on offer in the area.

Halesowen North Councillor Hilary Bills, Deputy Mayor of Dudley, said: “The day might have been tiring but it was brilliant and was a great way for the whole community to come together and have a natter.”