Published: Friday, 26th Jul 2019

Families in Bolton are being encouraged to get moving as part of a new campaign to tackle inactivity and improve health and wellbeing.

Sport on the Square 2019This week, Victoria Square was transformed into a theatre of sport as part of the annual Sport on the Square event.

Each day had a different theme, with the third and final day focusing on how sport and regular exercise can boost everyone’s physical health and mental wellbeing.

Thursday saw the launch of the “That Counts!” campaign in Bolton, a Sport England initiative aimed at reducing inactivity in Greater Manchester by 2021.

Data shows that more than a quarter (27%) of adults in Greater Manchester are classed as “inactive”, meaning they get less than 30 minutes of exercise per week.

Visitors to Sport on the Square were encouraged to try out a variety of activities designed to help them get moving.

They were also be able to contribute to a pledge wall, making a commitment to being more active in their day-to-day lives.

Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Cllr Susan Baines, said:

“Sport or other physical activities are a vital part of staying healthy for people of all ages.

“Sport on the Square is always a hugely popular event and a great way to get young people active at the start of the summer holidays.

“But it’s not just young people who need regular exercise, it is important for adults to take part in sport or other physical activities to help keep their minds and bodies healthy.”