EVER since she was appointed in May this year, the Mayor has stated her aim to celebrate “simple acts of kindness”.

In her maiden speech Cllr Hilary Fairclough praised the borough’s litter pickers, quiet carers and volunteers who help freely without reward or recognition.

Cllr Fairclough, who is today launching the Unsung Heroes Awards, said: “Bolton is the biggest town in England and I believe it has the biggest heart. I will do my utmost to keep Bolton on the map for all the right reasons.

“I believe that Bolton’s strength is in its residents – local people who go about their daily business but are kind, supportive and will do anything to help one another, or the area they live in.

READ MORE: Hunt is on to find Bolton's unsung heroes 

“We all know them, maybe not by name, but we see them regularly or benefit from their input.”

The senior Conservative, who has been a councillor for 19 years, has chosen five charities she will officially support this year with Bolton Hospice, Fort Alice, Bolton Dementia Support, Asian Elders and Bolton Scout Trust's Bibby’s Farm all set to benefit.

She has also invited other charities and community groups to get in touch  for support.

“Bolton is a wonderful town with a big heart and I shall do everything I can to champion the hard work of our vibrant and caring community,” she said.

“I am looking forward to meeting groups, charities and individuals from every part of the borough and celebrating their achievements.”

The University of Bolton, meanwhile, has a long tradition of working with local voluntary groups and charities, and there are a wide variety of options available.

Students can volunteer on short-term projects or provide their time and support on a longer-term basis. The university even has a dedicated volunteer co-ordinator who can help match students to opportunities, both within the university or externally.

Each year the university likes to acknowledge the contributions made by students, through a variety of awards

A spokesperson for the University of Bolton, added: “The act of volunteering can enhance the student’s own experience at the same time as supporting an individual, group or community project.

“The skills used and gained in the volunteer’s role can help in their career development, and the links made between the University, other students, organisations and the wider community can be of great benefit to all.”