THE diversity of the town was celebrated through food and dance.

More than 200 residents sampled dishes from around the world when they visited New Bury Community Learning Centre’s World of Food event.

Bits & Bobs, Hideaway Garden, Willow Hey Project, Justicia Charity, Farnworth Aces Morris Dancers and Farnworth Asian Women’s Group were some of the local groups who provided free dishes to taste, which included Italian, Punjabi, African, Arabic and Indian food.

And visitors made donations to Farnworth Food Bank in lieu of an entrance fee.

Local families also enjoyed cake and biscuit decorating, pampering treatments and health and wellbeing workshops, as well as music and dance all to celebrate unity and community cohesion.

Sam Khan, hub Manager, said: “Bolton is one of the most diverse towns in the country so it was a pleasure to see the diversity of our community reflected in the variety of food on offer. This event always brings the community together and everyone had a fantastic time.”

“I’d like to thank our wonderful community groups for making this event possible, as well as countless volunteers and the dedicated staff team from the centre. They offered their time freely, and without them, the event wouldn’t have been possible.”

Cllr Maureen Flitcroft said: “It was wonderful to see so many people attend the event. I’ve tasted some wonderful food, particularly the vegetarian curry; there are some very talented cooks in our borough.”

Cllr Lisa Weatherby added: “I had a fantastic time; the different dishes were lovely and the morris dancing was excellent. Everyone involved in the event did a fabulous job.”

The event was funded by Tesco Bags of Help & Groundwork Trust, in partnership with Bolton Council and Bolton College. Visitors had a chance to win a meal at Bolton College’s 4-star restaurant Signature and a facial in the college’s beauty salon.