INCLUSION is the theme of a new festival taking place in Birkenhead Park next Saturday. 

One Wirral is for everyone - regardless of age, gender, sexuality, religion, cultural view or disability.

As well as being a great day out for families and the whole community, it aims to highlight achievements and positive contributions made to society by local people with a learning disability.

The festival features 70 stalls, 10 free workshops, eight stage acts, three sports areas, donkey rides, pony grooming, bee-keeping, dog show, a giant inflatable assault course and much much more!

Sign language interpreters, quiet zones and a 'changing places' toilet with hoist are among special measures organised to ensure accessibility for all on the day.

The event is organised by Wirral Mencap, Options for Supported Living and Wirral Evolutions with a £10,000 grant from the National Lottery.

Chloe Harvey, chief executive of Wirral Mencap, said: "Events like this are so important as they bring us together and celebrate the generosity and spirit within our local community. 

"We hope to attract people from all walks of life and to illustrate that events like festivals and fete days can be accessible to everyone."

Set across seven themed zones leading from the park's Grand Entrance at the corner of Park Road North and Park Road East:, the event will feature:

  • Music Zone: Stage area hosted by Wirral Radio with a range of acts performing throughout the day
  • Active Zone: Sports, dance and drama workshops hosted by Tranmere Rovers, Daisy Inclusive UK, 3D Theatre Arts and a giant inflatable assault course from Military Style Education
  • Community Zone: Over 50 fete-style stalls from local community groups and charities
  • Craft Zone: Over 20 market-style stalls from our local crafters and artisan food sellers as well as face painters and crafty workshop
  • Nostalgia Zone: Workshops, exhibitions and a step into Wirral’s past with Age UK Wirral
  • Nature Zone: Plant sales, outdoor activities and animals
  • Chilled Zone: Picnic space with acoustic vibes
  • The event will feature stalls selling breakfasts, lunches and sweet treats. 
  • Wired's Shopmobility will also be there on the day, hiring out scooters to ensure any visitors with mobility needs can access the whole site.

The event takes place from 11am–4pm.

Praising the public's backing for the event, Chloe Harvey continued: "We are overwhelmed by the support we've received from the local community.

"Local businesses have given their support for free and we've had countless emails and phone calls from people wanting to help in some way!"

More details from the website www.onewirral.weebly.com or One Wirral 2017's Facebook Page.