Salford's We Invented The Weekend festival celebrates leisure time

Thousands of people came together to dance in the festival-closing Free Time Parade

Thousands of people have celebrated the weekend at a festival in the city where the very concept of the two-day leisure period was invented.

Salford's Robert Lowes campaigned for mill workers not to work on Saturdays in 1843, giving the UK its first official time off.

We Invented The Weekend saw all manner of events descend on MediaCityUK.

Co-founder Wayne Hemingway said it was "incredibly rewarding" to see so many people "fully embracing" its purpose.

"What a turn-out from all walks of life," he said.

"The weekend belongs to all of us.

"It has been incredibly rewarding to see such a diverse, happy crowd, of all ages, fully embracing the festival's purpose, discovering something new and appreciating each other more."

Art stations and workshops welcomed participants of all ages

People had the chance to browse hundreds of second-hand clothes

Musicians and DJs entertained the crowds across the two days

The festival included more than 200 free activities, including sets from the BBC Philharmonic and DJ Craig Charles, second-hand emporium Charity Super.Mkt's first venture into the North and CBeebies Bedtime Stories Live.

Organisers said RHS Bridgewater offered gardening advice and workshops, Art Battle: Next Generation created excitement at the top of the Lowry arts centre, the Weekend Arena "encouraged participation in a variety of sporting pursuits" and more than 100 art stations and workshops welcomed participants of all.

People had the chance to learn new skills and take part in new activities

Even superheroes joined in with the festivities

It was not just people who came to enjoy the sunshine

Salford Mayor Paul Dennett said the festival had been "a truly unique celebration of MediaCityUK, Salford Quays and its nearby areas and has demonstrated the passion this city has for its people".

"We Invented the Weekend showed what we're capable of, so we're thrilled to have played a part in its success," he said.

"We're very much looking forward to seeing what the city can accomplish next year."

Wayne Hemingway (above, with Craig Charles) said it was "incredibly rewarding to see such a diverse, happy crowd"

The sun was out on both Saturday and Sunday, with many seeking refreshments and a bit of shade throughout the day