SAND, palm trees and donkey rides - it can only be the Costa del Salford.

For one afternoon only, Spain and Greece had a Greater Manchester rival as council chiefs used 14 tonnes of sand to create a poolside paradise as a school holiday treat.

Hundreds gathered to make sandcastles, ride the donkeys and watch Punch and Judy shows at the beach in Albert Park, Broughton.

The sun struggled to shine... but at least the rain stayed away and authentic deckchairs were even brought down from Blackpool for the day.

Christine Barker, 42, from Winton in Salford, said: "It is absolutely fantastic. They've got palm trees and there's plenty for kids to do. If you can't go on holiday, this is a good option."

Her daughter Audrey Wise, six, said: "It's brilliant. I love it too." Gemma Matthews, 29, from Lower Broughton, who was at the beach with her daughter Emily, two, said: "I think it's a great idea. You don't usually expect to see a beach in Salford."

The beach was the idea of Salford park ranger Billy Masters, 19. The sand will be re-used in parks and allotments in the city. Dave Suggett, Salford's senior ranger, said: "There's been a lot of people here, which is just what we wanted."

Coun Keith Mann said: "We've never done anything like this before and it's nice to be able to put on something a bit different for people of all ages to enjoy this summer."

The beach was created with the help of Greater Manchester Play Resources Unit as part of Playday - a national campaign to encourage children to get out more.


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