POLITICAL heavyweights from UKIP and the Conservatives will come together this weekend to launch a local campaign encouraging people to vote to leave the European Union.

With the local elections out of the way by the weekend, campaigning for next month’s crucial EU referendum can begin in earnest.

Those in Bolton who are backing calls for the UK to drop its membership of the EU will be attending a garden party in Bradley Fold on Sunday — hosted by Bolton UKIP leader Sean Hornby at his pub The Queens Hotel.

The EU debate is bringing politicians from different parties together and attendees at Sunday’s launch event will include UKIP’s national deputy leader Paul Nuttall and Conservative MP for Bolton West Chris Green — both outspoken ‘Brexit’ backers.

Mr Green said: “I am really looking forward to the referendum campaign — I think it is unfortunate that it has slightly overshadowed the important local elections up to now.

“This referendum is going to be a once in a lifetime chance for people to decide on the future of our country.

“I think the inability of the European Union to embrace the idea of reform shows how unacceptable it is for the 21st century.”

He said the campaign was separate from party politics, adding: “Whether you are right, left or centre you may have concerns about things like controlling our borders or knowing who our politicians are in order to hold them to account.”

He added: “I think a garden party in the sun is the ideal way to get this local campaign going.”

Cllr Hornby said all are welcome at his pub on Sunday, with the party taking place between 1pm and 3pm.

He said: “I must stress this event is non-political and draws support from all political parties, so weather permitting we are expecting a good turn out a few good speeches and a great atmosphere.

“A rare event when politicians from all political parties will get together and give us an insight as to why we as a country should vote to leave the EU.

“The event is open to everyone irrespective of their political colours and we will be answering questions and giving speeches as to why we should leave the European Union.”