Bolton will showcase its outstanding volunteer sector at the Big Help Out event during the Coronation Weekend, and visitors can take advantage of parking for just £1.
- The £1 parking offer, in association with NCP car parks, is available at Deane Road NCP car park for up to 2 hours on the day of the Big Help Out.
- Nationally, the Big Help Out aims to raise awareness of the work voluntary groups provide, and to capture the goodwill of locals willing to support good causes.
- Locally, Bolton CVS will be hosting the first ever ‘Volunteers Market’ in Victoria Square from 11am to 2pm.
A total of 30 local charitable organisations will profile their work and highlight a wide range of opportunities for people to contribute to the local community.
In addition, there will also be live music, street performers and family entertainment plus touch rugby and facepainting to keep young people entertained.
Sue Johnson, Chief Executive of Bolton Council said:
“Bolton’s lucky to have so many outstanding community, charity and voluntary groups, all supported by volunteers who dedicate their lives to helping others.
This is our chance to thank them for their fantastic work, so please come to the Big Help Out and find out more about the incredible work they do for our town.”
Lauren McKechnie, Deputy Chief Executive at Bolton CVS said:
“Bolton CVS are thrilled to be working in partnership with Bolton Council to host Boltons Big Help Out!
“It is going to be a fantastic opportunity to connect with and celebrate a variety of voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations that make up this vibrant and amazing borough.”
Alison Caunce from Bolton Carers Support said:
“Visit our stall for some fun activities and find out how we support those needing help because of illness, frailty, disability, mental health problem or an addiction.”
Barbra Hackett said:
“Bolton Green Umbrella works tirelessly to make our town cleaner and greener, with more green and accessible spaces that are safe for everyone to enjoy.”
“The work makes a real difference to people’s physical health and mental wellbeing, so why not come and talk to us and join a group near to you?”
Aisha Aro-Lambo, from Wonderfully Made Woman, said:
"We are thrilled to be a part of this amazing event, connecting with fellow organisations and groups to make a positive impact on our vibrant and wonderful borough.
“When we join forces and work together, we have the power to accomplish incredible things."
Steve Sherry from Bolton LGBT+ said:
“A day for groups and organisations to showcase the wonderful work that happens right here in Bolton.
“We look forward to meeting other groups and of course the great Bolton public.”
- More information is available at thebighelpout.org.uk.
A weekend of Coronation celebrations
Bolton is already dressed to impress. To mark this momentous occasion, the town will be dressed in bunting and the Town Hall will be lit up in full colour with the Coronation Union Jack at full mast from 8am Friday morning, until 8pm Monday evening.
Bolton’s Library and Museum Service will add further sparkle providing arts and crafts, and family fun throughout the long weekend.
In Bolton, everyone is invited to join in the celebrations which will bring communities together.
In addition to the Big Help Out event, other celebrations include:
Coronation - Saturday, May 6:
The Coronation is a centrepiece of British history, and everyone will have the opportunity to watch the televised event and celebrate the unique moment with family, friends and neighbours.
The Coronation is also being screened live in Bolton’s Library and Museum Lecture Theatre and there will also be special themed Coronation arts, crafts and activities plus a silent disco.
The Big Lunch - Sunday, May 7:
Community celebrations and street parties are synonymous with Coronations and will be remembered for years to come.
This year’s Big Lunch is no different, and it is designed to promote food and friendship with neighbours.
Many Bolton residents have already planned street parties and have applied for road closures.
To help out, Bolton Council waived the usual administration fees and have signposted organisers to shared resources that are available to help plan events.
There have been 42 road closure applications for street parties accepted and, although applications have now been closed, people can still arrange tea and garden parties to celebrate with friends and family.
To check if there is a street party planned in your neighbourhood visit: edenprojectcommunities.com.
For details on national celebratory events for the Coronation with information, resources and details of how to get involved in the celebrations visit coronation.gov.uk