GRAND weather and some great support made Sunday's Wheelock bypass celebrations a rip-roaring success for joint organisers, Sandbach Lions and Galliford.

A carnival atmosphere throughout the day was rekindled in the evening with a band concert and firework display.

Thirty charities set up stalls along the road and there were other competitions and games. Three sponsored walks along the new carriageway were launched by a line-up of civic dignitaries and senior managers from Gallifords. They were joined by MP Ann Winterton.

The Lions own charity fund and Sandbach St. Mary's church will be boosted by the fund-raising.

"The charities, church and our own good causes have all done very well. We don't know just how much we have made yet as the money is still coming in," said Lions spokesman Reg Shallcross.

Following the colourful celebrations the road has been closed off again as Galliford workers continue preparing for the official opening at the end of next month.

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