SCORES of families enjoyed summer fun in the park.

Bolton Hospice threw its first Party in the Park, complete with music, games, staff and plenty of refreshments.

The Queens Park event was held on the same day the hospice staged its traditional summer fair. And it proved to be big hit.

Graham Yardley, hospice chairman, said: “We hold the summer fair to bring people into the hospice and this year we thought we would hold a Party in the Park to raise the profile of the newly redeveloped park as well.

“We are delighted with the turnout on such a beautiful day.”

He added: “The summer fair is about showing people around the hospice and many who come are surprised because there are perceptions about what hospices are.”

The event was opened was by the Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Colin Shaw.

He said: “I think it is a good idea to have this split event, especially for the children and it helps attract more visitors.”

Attractions included a karate demonstration, games for children, organised by volunteers and stalls set up by businesses in support of the hospice and live entertainment.

Sally Wilson, events co-ordinator at Bolton Hospice, said: “It is family day and being able to expand into Queens Park has given us more space, we will do it again in the future.”

And families gave it the thumbs up. Susan Wroe, from Lostock, said: “It is a good family event, and the weather makes it.

“We do try to support when we can because the people there do work hard.”

The Party in the Park also helped promote local organisations.

This included the Family Martial Arts Centre based in Bolton. Students gave visitors a demonstration of their skills.

Teresa Lynch from the centre , said: “We told the children who attend the centre why they were here and the great work the hospice does and how good it would be if they could come down with their families.”