THE COUNTDOWN has started to the 20th annual Disability Awareness Day, Europe’s biggest disability-led exhibition and information event.
Despite what seemed like impossible odds, the organisers, Warrington Disability Partnership, have guaranteed that the show will go on.
It’s a huge achievement for all involved, especially after months of uncertainty following the loss of long-serving principal sponsor the North West Development Agency, which is set to close.
To mark the 20th anniversary, the RAF Events Team have agreed a ‘fly past’ of a World War Two Dakota.
Event founder and co-ordinator Dave Thompson MBE DL, said “This year’s event has been made possible thanks to the support of most of the original sponsors and a massive team effort.
“We have also several new names on board with us this year including Arena Housing, St George’s Healthcare, Disability Trading Company and the David Lewis Centre.”
Dave and the team at WDP also raised funds with a fantastic scuba dive and swimming event. The “Going the Extra Mile” challenge – 66 lengths of the pool at Fordton Leisure Centre, Warrington – brought together 25 divers and swimmers.
The marathon swim was testing for most of them, but more so for Dave who has been a full time wheelchair user since breaking his neck in an American football game in 1989.
The accident left him with only limited use in his left arm, and none in his right arm and legs.
Fundraisers
But with help from his brother-in-law and dive buddy, Graham Horton, Dave managed to complete the challenge.
WDP staff and volunteers also took part in other fundraising events including the Manchester 10k Run and the Kayak Challenge.
Dave said: “It’s all been tough going, but very worth all the aches and pains. At least we can now say the show DEFINITELY goes on!”
More than 28,000 visitors and 250 exhibitors promoting independent living equipment, motoring and support services are expected to flock to the show, taking place at Walton Hall Gardens, Warrington, on Sunday, July 10.
DAD will be the finale of a disability awareness raising week consisting of 12 complementary events, including the official launch of DAD week 2011, to be held on Saturday, July 2, in Warrington town centre with a colourful display of performing arts including the ELLA from Halton Speak Out, Revive Dance School and stars from TV’s ‘Autistic Superstars’.
Other events during DAD week include mental health and wellbeing workshops; a theatre production of The Taming of the Shrew; a workshop for employers; a Party in the Park for young disabled people; Tea in a Tent from Warrington Carers Centre; and the ever-popular DAD BBQ in the Park.
On the big day itself there will be lots to keep everyone entertained – and informed!
Among the highlights is Inclusive Arts, featuring top disabled artists from across the UK, including Carly Ryan, Martin Finn, Alan Martin, Revive Dance Group, Ella, and Be-minor (Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist) and the Dee Sign Choir.
‘Have a go’
There will also be music from the Batala Samba Band and the Liverpool Harmonic Gospel Choir.
One of the marquees will be dedicated to artwork produced by disabled artists.
This year’s Sports Zone will include laser rifle shooting, a climbing wall, a huge scuba diving pool, wheelchair basketball, and, new for 2011, GB Adaptive Rowing. There will also be the chance to have a go at all the activities.
Entertainers around the park, plus a funfair, will keep children entertained.
More than 150 volunteer stewards and assistants from Lions and Rotary clubs, sea cadets, Thorn Cross Young Offenders Institute, plus dozens of family and friends will be helping to run things smoothly.
Easy access to and around the showground is a top priority and there will be a free, accessible Park & Ride service from the Old Greenall Brewery site, a free bus service from Warrington Bus Interchange. Also available will be BSL interpreters, a scooter and wheelchair loans service, and trained assistants.
