PEOPLE across Bolton are gearing up enjoy the town’s first interfaith cricket match this weekend.

The Interfaith Cricket Tournament and Family Fun Day will be at Deane and Derby Cricket Club, Chelsea Road, from noon on Saturday.

Teams from three faith groups, from Bolton Council of Mosques (BCOM), Bolton Christian Community Cohesion and Bolton Hindu Forum, will take part.

Ibrahim Kala, manager of BCOM, said “We hope this is first of many friendly cricket matches and other sporting events which are a wonderful way of our communities coming together and enjoying the day.

“This event is for everyone and we should embrace such an opportunity to build better relations in our town.

“I am grateful for the support given by Bolton Council, Bolton at Home, the cricket club, partners and volunteers.”

Rev Gilbert, of the Seven Saints Team who came up with the idea, added: “It is good to see everyone working together with the interfaith ethos for a fun day with many opportunities to mingle and hopefully making new friends.

“I have to say, Bolton is very good at holding such community events and hence it is a friendly town. Hope the sun shines on the day.”

The free entry event will also feature entertainment, a BBQ, bouncy castle, henna and face painting, calligraphy, a chocolate fountain and food stalls.

For further information, contact Chan Parmar, Bolton Interfaith Council, on 01204 546110.