OVER the last few years, I have been privileged to be part of Bolton Interfaith Council and the useful role the organisation is playing in promoting community cohesion in Bolton.

Recently, in Bolton town centre we celebrated the 5th Spirit of Bolton which was an excellent One Bolton event with so many varied contributions on stage as well as organisations promoting their good work in our community and activities for everyone to enjoy the day.

Despite the recent bad weather, we were blessed with a good day and a setting of our Town Centre was perfect for many to show case their own cultural dances, traditional songs and entertain the crowds of people. We had groups from East Africa, New Sudan, Zimbabwe, Kerala, Krishna Temple, Gilnow School and of course other local groups were as tremendous and helped to create a wonderful family friendly atmosphere in the Town Centre.

Food taste stall was popular as was henna, face and pebble painting as well as face mask making, sari workshop, prayer tree messages, reflection space, smooth bike and much more was provided by many volunteers. There were over a dozen varied activities, almost 20 groups promoting their community work and many different stage performances for entertainment was on show for all to have a fun filled day.

The purpose of the whole day was perhaps summed by the three young ladies from the new Sudan, who sang about how they were proud to be living in Bolton and appreciation of our town. The multi faith prayers by the interfaith ambassadors was inspiring — it was a lovely day to celebrate the positive Spirit of Bolton.

As someone, who co-ordinates such events as well as participates in others — you do realize that Bolton is a very good town and despite numerous challenges in front of us, we have many inspiring individuals who support partnership working in our town and whose commitment to ethos of One Bolton is unbelievably strong. For that I think, one has to appreciate the stronger partnerships which Bolton Council has managed to create and sustain in difficult times. The recent community events of Olympic Torch arrival ceremonies, Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Genocide Memorial Day, 5 K run and Spirit of Bolton are some shining examples of excellent work in Bolton.

We have received many positive comments and through this column, I wish to sincerely express my appreciations to each and every one who helped to deliver Spirit of Bolton. It is very inspiring for Bolton Interfaith Council to work with so many good people who care about Bolton.

Chan Parmar Bolton Interfaith Council