The Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes, has visited some excited school children to thank them for their contribution towards his annual charity ball.

Classes from primary and secondary schools across the borough were invited to create a piece of art inspired by the Caribbean theme of this year’s event. On the night of the ball, the boards were displayed in the town hall, with the Mayor choosing the overall winners.

Year 5 children from St Maxentius Church of England Primary School in Harwood triumphed in the primary school category, with a collage board inspired by Bob Marley. The Mayor was invited to a whole-school assembly to congratulate the winning pupils. He also led a question and answer session with all children in the school.  

Year 7 pupils from Sharples School won the secondary school category, with learners creating a selection of pictures inspired by the Caribbean. The Mayor and Mayoress were greeted by three of the winners, then treated to coffee and biscuits. The Mayor viewed their designs and the Mayoress handed out Mayoral badges. The Mayor then responded to pupils’ questions about his tenure.

Jessica Hill, aged 11, said, “We worked really hard on our pieces of art so as soon as we found out we’d won, we were so excited. I really liked the Mayor and Mayoress; we had lots of questions for them and they came up with some really interesting answers.”

On returning to the Mayor’s Parlour, the Mayor and Mayoress received 13 guests from Bolton College. Catering and Foundation learners had created the dessert and favours for his charity ball, whilst Art & Design students had painted some Caribbean surfboards to display on the night. The Mayor led a tour of the Town Hall, including the Council Chamber and the Hall of Remembrance.    

The Mayor of Bolton, Councillor Roger Hayes, said, “The pieces of art were wonderful and really helped to capture the spirit of the Caribbean. I am so grateful to all of the schools and to Bolton College for getting involved. It was lovely to be invited to the schools to meet the children who had clearly worked so hard on their artwork.”