THEY came, they walked and raised pots of money for charities big and small.

Hundreds of people of all ages completed five laps around Bolton Town Hall to show their support for the second Mayor’s Mile, an event which puts the “fun” into fundraising.

Some came in fancy dress, from a Masai Warrior to Doctor Who, while others wore outfits of the organisation they were representing.

The Mayor of Bolton Mayor, Cllr Norman Critchley, led a procession made up of the Shree Swaminarayan Gadi Pipe Band, Bolton Sea Cadets and Lofty The Lion.

The parade was joined by a pair of 8ft kangaroos, who were entertaining shoppers as part of the street shows put on Bolton Council to attract more visitors to the town.

Cllr Critchley said: “It is fabulous to see people supporting so many causes and charities.

“This year because of the recession we decided to hold the Mayor’s Mile in Victoria Square so people could also see what the town centre has to offer.

“I hope that the legacy of the event is that people will see how important it is to support charities and organisations and will continue to support them in the future.

“An event like this brings people together and rekindles that spirit which has brought Bolton forward.”

He added: “I have had a wonderful year as mayor, particularly meeting the people of Bolton.”

Those putting their best foot forward included a team from The Bolton News, who were raising money for the paper’s Marie Curie Nurses Appeal.

Health correspondent Cherry Thomas said: “We’ve had a great time and are hoping to have raised hundreds of pounds. Marie Curie Nurses provide vital help and support to people in Bolton.”

She added: “Dressed as a daffodil I hope to have raised awareness of this important charity and the campaign by The Bolton News.”

Others walked in support of Help for Heroes and to raise money for facilities which provide short stays to disabled children and young people in Bolton.

Five ladies, walking on behalf of Bolton Interfaith Council, provided entertainment when they did some impromptu Bollywood Dancing.

Hemlata Chevlil, aged 53, said: “We are raising money for Bolton Hospice.

It was cold so some of us danced round the town hall to keep warm. It was a great atmosphere.”

Younger people took part in aid of the organisations such as Bolton Sea Cadets, raising money for their unit. Cara Ashworth, aged 13, said: “It’s a great organisation, it’s like a second family.”

The entry fee of £5 per person, with a reduced price for groups, will be donated to the mayor’s chosen charities of Manchester Heart Centre and Bolton Thoracic Medicine Unit, Diabetes UK North West and the Bolton Destitute Animal Shelter.