Market Place, Bolton is teaming up with local businesses, groups and organisations to help combat social isolation and encourage mental and physical activity within the older generations in the Bolton community.
They are set to run a series of FREE creative and interactive workshops for senior citizens to enjoy, on the ground floor of Market Place in the store near Debenhams every Wednesday from 11am. These workshops will offer participants the opportunity to try new crafts, learn new skills and meet new people in the community.
The workshops start on Wednesday 25th September with a canvas art creation workshop where participants can enjoy the chance to get hands-on and create a unique piece of canvas art with paint and craft materials.
On Wednesday 2nd October they’ll learn how to create patchwork accessories such as broches and hair bands and on Wednesday 9th October they’ll have the opportunity to paint and create a number of decorative items including plates, mugs and ornaments in our pottery workshop.
On Wednesday 16th October customers will be able to create a floral keepsake to take home in this workshop hosted by Glassy Gardens, while on Wednesday 23rd October they’ll learn the art of Tai Chi.
This is a gentle form of exercise which will bring health benefits to older people and those with limited mobility.
On Wednesday 30th October visitors will be able to have a go at marbling a variety of ornaments to make something colourful and original then on Wednesday 6th November they can learn how to crochet a poppy pattern in honour of Remembrance Day.
Finally, on Wednesday 13th November senior citizens will be able to enjoy live entertainment from Frank Sinatra and Neil Diamond tribute acts on the main stage, plus free coffee and biscuits.
In addition, every Wednesday, senior citizens can also enjoy FREE Chair Yoga sessions to help increase mobility in the unit next to Norton Barrie at 2pm.
Each week they can “Get on Board” with special food promotions and board games at Basic Kneads and enjoy a free hot drink with any pasty purchased at Carrs Pasties.
There will also be lots of special offers and discounts at a number of stores and food outlets.
The Light Cinema will also be offering special senior screenings of ‘Yesterday’ on Wednesday 9th October and ‘The Lion King’ on Wednesday 16th October at a special discounted price of £5 a ticket.
Wonderful Wednesdays are the perfect way for senior citizens to meet new people, make new friends and stay active in the heart of the community. Market Place prides itself on its inclusiveness, offering a variety of events and services for all ages and abilities throughout the year.
Nikki Wilson-Cook, Centre Manager, Market Place says, “We’re really excited about Wonderful Wednesdays. We feel it is so important for every member of the community to feel a sense of purpose and inclusivity. These regular events should hopefully add an element of routine into the week for the older generations and provide free activities and entertainment for them to enjoy as well as the opportunity to socialise and learn new skills”