A FAMILY fun day is being organised on Saturday to revive the community spirit ­— ­ and stop ant--social behaviour and criminals in their tracks.

The newly established Tonge Fold Neighbourhood Watch has teamed up with Tonge Park Residents Association to put on the afternoon event ­— with a free invite going out to anyone who lives in the area.

The 'party in the park', celebrating the launch of the Tonge Fold Neighbourhood Watch, is designed to bring people together so they can work together to make their community a safer place to live.

Only last week The Bolton News reported how Thicketford Day Centre used by the elderly was targeted by vandals

Attractions on the day include live music and entertainment, a play van for youngsters, theatre performances, raffle, climbing wall and archery as well as many other activities for all ages.

There will also be plenty of stalls and a barbecue.

Local firefighters will also be at the event to offer safety advice and meet local residents.

Chairman of the Tonge Fold Neighbourhood Watch Dave Edmondson said: "We want people to become more involved in their local area. This helps to develop a sense of pride and people are more likely to look after the area ­— it helps to promote community cohesion.

"I have lived in Tonge Fold all my life and do not remember an event like this being put on in this park, which is just off Ainsworth Lane.

"The event is free and we have lots of activities for children."

He added: "We set up Tonge Fold Neighbourhood Watch in response to anti-social behaviour and what seemed to be an increase in low-level crime.

"By working together we can make it more uncomfortable for those acting anti-social and committing crime."

He said there would be information stalls at the family fun event offering residents advice on how they can protect themselves against scams and crime.

Special bags full of information and practical items for those aged 50 and over will be given out to help keep them safe.

Local firefighters will also be at the event to meet residents.

The family fun day runs from noon until 4pm.