THE efforts throughout the year by community volunteers and charities in Bolton and its surrounds will be celebrated on Friday.

The event will showcase the national event Local Charities Day, which will highlight the work of small charities that work together with Bolton Community and Voluntary Services (CVS).

The Bolton CVS is hoping that community action, which is making a real impact in improving the loves of others should be put under the spotlight in order to celebrate those unsung heroes and volunteers associated with the town.

To celebrate the day, the artistic director of the Octagon Theatre Elizabeth Newman will be guest speaker at The Bolton Hub, Bold Street, with live music provided by Bolton Trust Music.

Darren Knight, chief officer at Bolton CVS said: "If it was down to me, every day would be Local Charities Day.

"Across the town we have got we’ve got 1,561 voluntary and community groups making things happen in the borough and that would involve highlighting four organisation each and every day.

"This is the second year that Bolton CVS has highlighted the day which is so important to me and the whole team because local voluntary and community action is what we exist to support."

Bolton CVS helps provide guidance, support, help and advice to volunteers, groups and organisations."

He explains: "Getting the chance to promote, shout and share all the immense and fantastic contributions these individuals, volunteers, staff and trustees that change lives by giving their time, skills and talents is a genuine treat."

He added: "My hope is that Local Charities Day 2017 inspires more people to get involved in their community. It can all start by giving Bolton CVS a call and we’ll get you the support you need to make a difference."

Bolton CVS has showcased work of of a variety of organisation including Bolton Trust Music, Bolton Interfaith Council, Bolton Wanderers Community Trust, Fresh as a Daisy, Xplode Magazine, Bolton Beacon Counselling, Bolton Newstalk, The Destitution Project, Building Bridges, Age UK Bolton, Bolton Deaf Society, Bolton Town Centre Chaplaincy, Bolton LGBT, Halliwell Befriending Service, 26th Bolton Horwich Parish Brownies Group, Friends of Moorgate and HELP Dadaab.

For further information on Bolton CVS telephone 01204 546 010.