Diamond Bus donates to Bolton-based Be The Change studio

Be The Change, which works with youngsters between the ages of 11 and 25, is in the process of moving into new premises on Back Deane Church Lane West in Daubhill.

Group CEO Daniel Sukula said this could be crucial to their future and his plans have now been boosted with a donation from Bolton-based Diamond Bus North West.

Mr Sukula said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive support from Diamond Bus.

“The fund will enable us to create a state-of-the-art studio, which can be used for dance, drama, fitness classes and many other activities.

An artist's impression of the new centre (Image: Be The Change)

“The support to create a multi-purpose studio will not only benefit young people but it will also benefit the entire community, as we plan to deliver fitness sessions for adults.

“Speaking to our members, it is already clear that the studio will be one of their favourite rooms in the building.”

Young people from all over Bolton take part in the group (Image: Be The Change)

Be The Change works with young people from all over Bolton on a range of sports and arts programmes as well as on knife crime prevention workshops and mentoring activities. 

Mr Sukula’s plans to move the group to bigger premises have been in the works for nearly a year, with plans for the Back Deane Church Lane West centre unveiled last July.

Be The Change members at Bolton Town Hall (Image: Be The Change)

The funds donated by Diamond will allow the group to create a new studio, which will be used for dance, drama and more at the new facility.

The studio will be known as the “Diamond Studio” in tribute to its patron.

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Mr Sukula said: “Thank you Diamond Bus for supporting our project refurbishment.

“It is so important to have the backing of local businesses in order for us to continue helping the young people, who in the future can become their employees and help shape our society.''

The donation marks another close tie that the company has forged with Bolton in recent months, with Diamond having opened its new Silverwell Street head office only last November.

A Diamond Bus North West spokesperson said: “Supporting this charity gives us the chance to build on our commitment to the local community and support our developing young people who are a positive force in their community!”