THE Mayor has urged the town to turn out to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Bolton’s association with HMS Dido.

Cllr John Byrne will present Pingat Jasa Malaysian medals to ex-seamen for their service in Malaysia at the start of the 1960s.

In just seven days in 1941, during the Second World War, the people of Bolton raised more than £1 million for the country’s war chest.

It was dubbed Warship Week and the money raised by the people of Bolton allowed the town to adopt a warship — HMS Dido.

HMS Dido was scrapped in 1958, but three years later, a second HMS Dido was launched.

Cllr Byrne said: “We’re all looking forward to welcoming our friends from the HMS Dido Association in Victoria Square on Saturday.

“It’s going to be a brilliant day with lots going on for everyone.

“There will be a climbing wall, children’s arts and crafts and some balloon magic.

“I do hope lots of people will join us for what promises to be a memorable day when Bolton’s Cadets will be helping to raise money for Help for Heroes and the RNLI.”

Entertainment will come from Bolton FM, the Ellesmere Port Sea Cadets Band and the Houghton Weavers while Cllr Byrne will also present The Bolton News’ Design a Plate For Will and Kate competition winners and runners up with their prizes on the Town Hall steps at 2.45pm.

● A proud moment for cadets: See our Looking Back page on Saturday.