THOUSANDS of people descended on Walton Hall and Gardens yesterday (Sunday) as Warrington’s flagship Disability Awareness Day (DAD) celebrated its 35th anniversary.
It proved to be another hugely successful event, reinforcing its reputation as the largest voluntary-led pan-disability exhibition in the world.
Families, disabled people, carers, health professionals and community organisations enjoyed a packed programme of activities, information and entertainment as nearly 200 exhibitors showcased the latest equipment, support services, employment opportunities, accessible sports and independent living solutions in a vibrant tented village.
Organised by Warrington Disability Partnership, the free event once again demonstrated why it has become one of the town’s most celebrated annual occasions, attracting visitors from across the UK and overseas while championing the message that disability should never be a barrier to leading a full and active life.
Founder Dave Thompson MBE DL said the event’s continued growth reflected the dedication of hundreds of volunteers, supporters and exhibitors who had helped transform a local initiative into a globally recognised showcase for disability inclusion.
He said: “Thirty-five years ago we set out to change perceptions by focusing on what disabled people can do rather than what they can’t. Seeing thousands of people here today proves that message is just as important now as it was when we first started.
“We are incredibly proud that Disability Awareness Day has grown into the world’s largest voluntary-led pan-disability event. It belongs to everyone who has supported us over the years – our volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, performers and, of course, the visitors who make it such a special day.
“Our aim has always been to provide information, advice and inspiration while creating a fun, inclusive day out for the whole family. Every year we see new partnerships formed, new technology unveiled and countless people discovering services that can help them live more independently.”
Visitors were able to experience accessible sports, live performances, arts and crafts, family entertainment and the ever-popular Sports Zone, alongside displays of the latest mobility equipment and independent living technology.
The event also highlighted the work of statutory agencies, charities, businesses and voluntary organisations working together to improve opportunities for disabled people, reflecting Warrington Disability Partnership’s long-standing “Can Do” philosophy.
Since being launched in 1992, Disability Awareness Day has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors and inspired similar events in almost 20 countries around the world. It has become one of Warrington’s biggest community events while raising the profile of disability awareness on an international stage.
Yesterday’s milestone anniversary was made possible by Warrington Disability Partnership’s dedicated team, together with the army of volunteers whose hard work behind the scenes ensured another memorable and successful occasion.
As the crowds departed Walton Hall and Gardens after another inspiring celebration of inclusion, equality and opportunity, the overwhelming feeling was that Disability Awareness Day continues to go from strength to strength, with Warrington remaining firmly at the heart of a movement that is changing lives and challenging perceptions across the world.
Dabve Thompson with Principal sponsors United Utilities and Town Crier AJ Powell at the launch
For a gallery of more than 40 photos click on the image
