LEADERS at Bury Hospice have issued a rallying call to their supporters to match previous years’ enthusiasm for their replacement Party in the Park event.

The ‘Not the Party in the Park’ celebration will take place at Clarence Park, off Walmersley Road, on Saturday July 4, after being moved from its usual location in Close Park, Radcliffe.

The decision to leave Close Park has caused disappointment among many of the usual attendees, but hospice bosses say they decided on the switch to avoid confusion with Grace’s Place, which has taken over the old hospice building in Dumers Lane.

Bury Hospice moved to its new premises in Rochdale Old Road in March 2013.

Vickie Butcher, the hospice’s fundraising manager, said: “We decided to change venues because Grace's Place, the new children's hospice, is now occupying our old building and, as we are separate charities, we wanted to save confusion because there are still many people who think we are one and the same.

"Over the past couple of years, the event has grown and become a tremendous success.

“We have moved this year to Clarence Park, but this year we aim to make it our most successful Not the Party in the Park ever.

“We want to invite all of the family down to visit us and to enjoy our amazing line-up of music, activities and family fun.

“We would like to say thank you to all those who will support and attend this year’s event. All of the money raised goes directly towards patient care.”

The event takes place from 12pm until 5pm, with visitors urged to travel on public transport or by foot as parking is extremely limited.

It will be opened by Coronation Street actor Marc Anwar and feature performances by Rihanna and Amy Winehouse tribute acts, as well as a Bollywood style dance display.

Local acts including Bury Young Voices, Bury Community Choir, and Freak Dance will also be performing.

The hospice is also looking for volunteers to deliver flyers in the Walmersley area, and are seeking further donations of raffle and tombola prizes.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact hospice community and events fundraiser Michelle King on 0161 797 1748.