Apples, pies and big community spirit at Falinge Park’s first Vintage Apple Fair

Sunday, 17 August 2025 17:48

By Veronike Makin

Credit: Veronike Makin / Roch Valley Radio

Bakers, games and a runaway gazebo mark Mayor’s Charity Fun Day as a hit with families.

Falinge Park’s first ever Vintage Apple Fair drew crowds from across Rochdale today, Sunday 17 August, with families turning out for an afternoon of food, fun and fundraising, all in support of the Mayor’s chosen charities.

The event was organised by long-time community champion Tracie Powers, who has spent nearly two decades helping keep the park open, welcoming and full of life. She regularly works with Rochdale Council and local charities to run events that raise vital funds for the park’s upkeep and community garden.

“This was just something different to attract a mix of people,” said Tracie, who already has ideas for next year.

The centrepiece was a lively apple pie bake-off, featuring 15 homemade entries. Judging was done blind, but in a surprise twist, the winning pie was baked by Tracie herself: an apple and lemon sponge topped with thick icing.

“They were all very nice, it was a difficult choice,” said Mayor Janet Emsley, who took part in the judging.

The Mayor didn’t just judge pies, she threw herself into the games too, taking a go at the Apple Toss, where Yorkshire puddings were balanced on scaffolding and aimed at with a flying crocheted apple. She also tried her hand at the Apple Shot, a target game involving a bow and arrow.

Proceeds from food stalls and activities will go to Springhill Hospice, Jolly Josh, Papyrus, Awakening Minds and the Women’s Housing Action Group.

Groundwork Greater Manchester were also on hand, inviting residents to write down their hopes for the area. Common themes included cleaner streets, more events like this one, and a stronger police presence, but also a lot of love for Falinge Park’s scenery and community spirit.

That spirit was on full display when a sudden gust of wind blew the tombola stall’s gazebo clean off the field. Visitors rushed after it and hauled it back, tying it down tightly to stop any further drama.

Tracie says she’ll continue coming up with ideas to keep the park busy and inclusive: “It’s not just about raising money, it’s about keeping the park somewhere people want to come.”

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Vintage Apple Fair & Mayor’s Charity Fun Day August 2025

Credit: Veronike Makin

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