Whitworth swinging 60s celebration

Families gathered at The Ashcroft (formerly the Riverside, Whitworth) to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy being back in the community again

Whitworth Swinging 60s celebration took place on the afternoon of Sunday 12 September, a one-off event funded by The Welcome Back Fund.

Families gathered at The Ashcroft (formerly the Riverside, Whitworth) to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy being back in the community again.

The event featured numerous singing acts such as the Dakotas, the Threetles, the Clic, Lareena, and DJ Dave Sweetmore, as well as local business’ stalls, inflatables and children’s games. Guests were kept fed and watered by local business such as Yankeeshire Diner, Bubbles and Brews, and Lords the Caterers.

The event was made possible due to the Welcome Back Fund from the European Regional Development Fund to bring the community of Whitworth back together following the lifting of the pandemic restrictions.

Whitworth resident, Diane Maunders was excited to see the Dakotas, the band she had watched support Billy J Kramer back in 1964. She brought a deckchair and enjoyed the music with her daughter and granddaughter.

The event was organised by Whitworth Tourism and Leisure Committee; a group of councillors and volunteers who put on a schedule of annual events for the community. 

The committee have begun planning events once again as restrictions allow. Currently, they are working on plans for a Christmas wreath making workshop, the Santa Express and the world famous annual Whitworth New Year's Day Duck Race - ducks can be sponsored in advance at local events or online.

For further information, or if you are interested in joining the Tourism and Leisure Committee as a volunteer please contact Melanie Hearn, Whitworth Town Clerk on 01706 852018 (Monday to Friday, 9am – 2.30pm).