THOUSANDS of people turned out for One Wirral 2018 to celebrate inclusion and diversity in the borough.

The free community event, organised by Wirral Mencap and Options for Supported Living, took place at Birkenhead Park on Saturday, August 18 and featured a wide range of interactive workshops for all ages including drumming, Middle Eastern dance and inclusive art activities.

On the day, visitors were treated to performances from The Riversign Choir, The Beathovens and Edge of 17 from The Hive to name a few.

More than 60 Wirral based businesses and charities were present on the day.

Jennie Little, of Options for Supported Living said: “We’ve really appreciated the community support we’ve had in bringing back the festival for the second year running. It’s been inspiring witnessing first-hand the benefits it’s had for people with disabilities and members of our local community.

"After the success of Saturday, we're definitely looking forward to One Wirral 2019 and would love for more organisations and people in the community to get involved next year!”

During the day, mobility scooters, sign language interpreters, accessible bikes, sensory activities and a Changing Places facility with hoist were available and there was even a zone dedicated to cultural diversity led by Wirral Change.

This zone featured food from around the world, traditional dress, cultural workshops and an exhibition.

Chief executive of Wirral Mencap, Chloe Harvey told the Globe: “Community events can often be inaccessible for lots of people – toilet facilities may be inadequate and the terrain may be difficult to navigate if you use a wheelchair.

"We wanted to create an event that was for everyone in Wirral regardless of age, disability, culture or background and show other event organisers that with a few small adjustments you can make events accessible to all.

"We want everyone to feel part of One Community and to get involved if they want to – this includes the people with a learning disability that we support – many of whom were volunteers and ambassadors on the day.

"We also wanted to celebrate the fantastic businesses and charities that make Wirral a great place to live.”

The event was made possible by a crowdfunding campaign which was secured after a £2,500 cash pledge from The Lauries and Wirral Chamber of Commerce.

Chief executive at Wirral Chamber of Commerce Paula Basnett said: “It is important that events such as the One Wirral Festival continue, offering great opportunities to promote the achievements and important contributions made by people with and without disabilities in making our community stronger.

"Both Wirral Chamber of Commerce and The Lauries are very much community minded about our businesses and our people, so we were delighted to show our support for the One Wirral Festival.”

For more information, find One Wirral 2018 via https://www.facebook.com/onewirral2018/ or contact Wirral Mencap on 0151 666 1829.