15 pictures as families dive into fun activities at Valley Vitality Festival

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Families flocked to the Valley Vitality Festival which returned for a second year. The Valley Leadership Academy in Stacksteads was transformed into a buzzing hub of creativity and connection.

Pupils, staff and their families joined a host of health professionals, charities and small businesses to celebrate the importance of mental and physical health and wellbeing. Three ambitious goals were outlined for the festival - to strengthen community cohesion and inclusion, provide fun, accessible activities based on the NHS's '5 Steps to Mental Wellbeing' and engage and empower young people by connecting them with community stakeholders and positive initiatives.

The site was divided into vibrant zones that encouraged guests to explore the school as every corner offered something new to discover. In the 'Be Connected' drop-in zone, experts from NHS Primary Care, Citizens Advice, Haslingden Community Link, Rossendale Valley Energy and In Mind Therapies were on hand to offer lifestyle advice, provide free health checks and signpost guests to relevant services.

Engaging CPR demonstrations and hands-on healthy food sessions attracted many eager learners, while an informative workshop led by Dr Emma Gladwinfield educated attendees on the importance of gut health. The 'Be Active' zone offered American football taster sessions hosted by the Rossendale American Football Club, who introduced a whole new sport to many attendees, while a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu demonstration from The Grapple Mill club drew a curious and enthusiastic audience of all ages.

Energetic Zumba classes, rounders and inflatable football games provided non-stop action and excitement for families looking to burn off some energy, while more relaxed visitors took part in yoga sessions, baby massage classes and meditation and shamanic workshops to recharge and reset. Creative stations in the 'Be Open-minded' zone offered guests the chance to try their hand at new skills - from circus school and magic workshops to painting and puppet shows.

An enchanting highlight was the Hatchling Chronicles Experience, whose whimsical bubble displays and interactive dragon encounters delighted children and adults alike. Mad Science experiments kept curious minds engaged and bubbling with excitement, while the Rossendale Drum Majorettes wowed audiences with their precision and performance.

A festival favourite was the Taylor Swift tribute act, who captivated the crowd with a high-energy set that had 'Swifties' of all ages dancing and singing along. In addition, Open Mic and Open Decs sessions run by the Northern Music Project and Dodeca gave young people the opportunity to step into the spotlight and share their talents.

Year 8 pupil Taylor Casey, said: "I had a great time at the festival. I sang at one of the Open Mic sessions. "Singing makes me feel good about myself and I am going to find out more about the Open Mic youth club."

Event funding was provided by Bacup Creatives, Rossendale Borough Council, Rossendale Primary Care Network and Star Academies, while other organisations and individuals gave their time, talents and resources for free or at reduced rates to make the day a reality.

Organiser Dr Gladwinfield said: "The Valley Vitality Festival was a massive success. Having a day for the community to get together, try something new and have fun is so important.

"As a local GP I was so pleased there was an emphasis on healthy eating, being more physically active and looking after our mental health. I really hope there is another one next year."