RESIDENTS of all ages are being urged to discover how they can 'make a big difference' in their communities by attending the town's first 'volunteer festival' next month.

The event will be hosted by Warrington Voluntary Action in association with Warrington Borough Council, LiveWire and Culture Warrington.

It will give the public the chance to learn more about the wide variety of selfless opportunities available across the borough.

The free, drop-in event is open to everyone, from parents to retirees, part-timers to full-timers, young people and families.

A variety of organisations will be showcasing the range of options available, including sports and leisure, community and health, arts and culture, animals and the environment.

Alison Cullen, chief executive at Warrington Voluntary Action, is calling on residents to attend.

She said: "Volunteering can make a big difference in your community.

"If you want to make a positive change but don't know where to start, this event is for you – there's a volunteer opportunity to suit everyone.

"There are an estimated 44,000 volunteers currently active across the borough and together they make this a caring, vibrant and fun place to be.

"Do your bit and join the volunteers of Warrington."

Graham Cheers, who volunteers his time to organise Warrington's junior park run, added: "I would never have classed myself as a confident person before but now I feel that my confidence has grown – especially with public speaking.

"I have become more known within my community and really enjoy getting involved in projects to help children get more active."

The event marks the launch of 'count me in' – a new Warrington-wide campaign aimed at making the borough an 'even better place to live, work, visit and do business'.

It will take place at the Pyramid, on Palmyra Square, from 4pm to 8pm on April 27.

Last entry is at 7.45pm.

Registration for the event can be completed online by visiting warringtonva.org.uk.

For further information e-mail stef@warringtonva.org.uk or call 246880.