BOLTON’S first citizen was given a warm “ex-pat” welcome at the Bolton Irish Centre when it staged a knees-up charity night in his honour.

The night of Irish and Lancashire folk music was held to raise money for the mayor’s charities.

And the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Guy Harkin, got into the spirit of the night and took to the stage to give a rendition of Wild Colonial Boy, an Irish- Australian folk song.

The night was a sell-out as more than 200 people enjoyed the evening of entertainment and fundraising.

Performing on the night as well as Cllr Harkin were The Fettlers and Me ‘n’ Im.

Deputy Mayor Cllr Noel Spencer — who also has his roots in Ireland — also took to the stage to sing The Lady is a Tramp.

Cllr Harkin said: “There were a couple of hundred people there and the night was a sell-out. More tickets could have been sold but we couldn’t because of health and safety restrictions.

“It was a good night and everyone enjoyed it. There was a raffle and an auction. The Irish Centre also donated an extra £150 on top of the money raised. I think about £800 was raised.”

He added: “I would like to thank the centre for organising the evening and the people who supported it.

“The more money we can raise for charity the better.

“I was given a warm ex-pat welcome — and both myself and the deputy mayor sang.”

On Friday, March 15, the “fun” will continue to be put into fundraising with the Mayor’s Charity Ball and Cabaret, where guests will arrive at the main ceremonial entrance to the Town Hall and enjoy a drinks reception, followed by a five-course meal.

This year the Mayor is raising money for a number of charities, including those which support people suffering from cancer or dementia. Money will also be used to help young people.