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Page 12 July 2026 AD SALES 01204 478812 A HARRY Potter fan who dreamed of step- ping into the world of Hogwarts became one of the first chil- dren to have her wish granted through a new service from Derian House Chil- dren’s Hospice. Phoebe-Faith Gyves enjoyed a magical family trip to the Warner Bros Studio Tour London, where she smiled all the way as she explored the sets, props and costumes from the films. The 12-year-old’s wish was made possible through Derian Wishes, a new service designed to help make dreams come true for every seri- ously ill child and young person receiving care from the Chorley hospice. The aim is to give them the chance to make precious memo- ries during what could be some of their most difficult times. The trip was organ- ised in partnership with Holly’s Hearts, a char- ity founded by Mark and Jenny Prince in memory of their daugh- ter Holly, who died aged five following a battle with cancer. After Holly passed away, she rested at Derian House, and her parents have since worked closely with the hospice to help launch Derian Wishes and support other families facing unimagina- ble challenges. Phoebe-Faith’s mum, Rachel Matthews, said: “We had such a fantastic time – Harry Potter was amazing and we saw all of the characters. “It was the best week- end we have had in a long time. We went on the London Eye, had a boat trip on the River Thames and did some shopping. Phoebe-Faith loved it. It was nice to spend time together, just the four of us, away from home.” Derian House supports more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families across the North West, helping them to make the most of every moment. The new service gives every child and young person the opportunity to have a special wish granted. Wishes can be big or small, from meet- ing a hero or enjoying a dream day out to receiv- ing something they have always wanted. To help bring those wishes to life, the charity has created a dedicated ‘Wishmaker’ role, work- ing closely with families to plan experiences and Marco is back on the festival menu CELEBRITY chef Marco Pierre White is set to return to the Bolton Food and Drink Festival adding to its line-up of culi- nary stars. He is the latest edition to a packed programme of special events, with opportunities for visitors to see one of the UK’s most celebrated chefs in action. Marco is set to host two special events where he will showcase his skills and share his passion for food. They include a special lunch at The Albert bar in the Albert Halls with TV chef and hotelier Michael Caines on Saturday August 29. Both former Michelin star holders will be in Recruitment event proves just the job Schools’ safety is streets ahead MORE than 150 people attended a recruitment event as one of the UK’s biggest employers gets set to create 75 new jobs at Logistics North. Bolton Employment Hub hosted the event in collaboration with McDonald’s as it prepares to open its new site at the logistics and commercial development area just off theM61. The fast-food restaurant chain is looking to fill 75 crew member posi- tions at the new restaurant, offering employment opportunities for all levels of experience. Attendees were able to learn more about the roles available, speak directly with representatives, and take the first steps toward joining the McDonald’s team. The employment hub, Bolton Council’s work and skills support ser- vice, recently relocated to the One Stop Shop in the town hall. Steph Holland, head of people at McDonald’s, said: “Partnering with Bolton Council for our recent bespoke career event with the Employment Hub was a brilliant experience. “The event was flawlessly organised, and we were thrilled by the level of interest, meeting with more than 150 fantastic candidates. “It’s been a true pleasure collaborat- ingwith their teamandwe look forward to building on this success together.” Bolton Council leader Akhtar Zaman, added: “The new restaurant at Logistics North highlights how our ongoing regenerationwork isbringingmore jobs and investment into the borough.” Making wishes come true Studio tour: Phoebe-Faith on her family trip (Photo credit: Derian House) surprises that are mean- ingful to each child. Another of the first wishes granted was for six-year-old Isla Pember- ton, whose dreamwas to own a Nintendo Switch and Super Mario games. On her birthday, Isla was surprised at home with a gift-wrapped box containing her wish, as well as character plush toys from the game. Rachel Pemberton, Isla’s mum, said: “It has meant so much to us! Seeing her smiling and enjoying herself is magical.” More than 90 wishes have already been sub- mitted by Derian House families, with requests ranging from games con- soles, sensory toys, and days out, to concerts, UK holidays, and European holidays – including Dis- neyland Paris. Three wishes have already been granted so far, and dozens more are still in the making. Wishmaker Gillian Rabbett said: “A wish can be so much more than a special day or a gift; it can bring happiness, hope, and precious family mem- ories that last a life- time. We loved seeing Phoebe-Faith and Isla’s happy faces, and there will be so many more. “Through Derian Wishes, we want every child and young person in our care to have the chance to experience something truly meaningful to them. We’re incredibly excited to begin mak- ing dreams come true and creating even more magical moments for our families.” BOLTON’S School Streets safety initia- tive is growing. Two more schools in the borough have now joined the scheme. The Gates Primary in Westhoughton and Shar- ples Primary in Bolton started operating School Streets in June. The scheme aims to make it safer for children to walk, bike or wheel to school. On days when the schools are open, it means that access to some nearby streets will be controlled at school drop off and pick up times. Residents, workers, school staff and emer- gency responders will still be able to get in and out of the streets, with school staff and trained volunteers on hand to let the necessary vehi- cles through. At the Gates Primary, Bristle Hall Way will be affected 8.30am to 9am and 3pm to 3:30pm. Hugh Lupus Street at Sharples Primary will have controlled access in the mornings only, between 8.30am and 9am, Monday to Friday during term time. Both schools success- fully tried out the idea earlier in the year to see if they would be practical. Schools Streets have been adopted all over Greater Manchester with more than 50 now in place, while London has over 700. Rabiya Jiva, Bolton Council’s executive mem- ber for children’s services, said: “It’s never too early for children to enjoy being active and getting to and from school under their own steam is fun way to do it. “What makes School Streets great is that they help us keep our young- sters safe along the way.” the room, sharing their inspiration and tech- niques as guests enjoy a specially curated sea- sonal three-course menu. They will also take part in a Q&A session. On Monday August 31 Marco will be back at the Albert Halls for an exclusive live cook- ery demonstration. He will showcase his signature culinary skills, sharing delicious recipes alongside expert techniques and tips. Marco’s appearance adds to an already impressive line-up of culinary talent, includ- ing celebrity chef James Martin who is returning with his cooking demon- strations on August 29. Food lovers and com- edy fans are also in for a treat at a new festival event called, Pasties, Pints and Punchlines. It will combine local food and drink with top comedy from Justin Moorhouse, bringing together expert insight, tastings and plenty of laughs in one entertain- ing afternoon. BOLTON Library staff are celebrating after being recognised for their work making a real difference in the community. The Libraries Con- nected Awards were announced at a glitzy ceremony at a hotel in Warwickshire. Bolton staff took home two awards. Caroline Hall was recognised in the ‘Reading’ category while Charlotte Higham received the Health and Wellbeing award. Caroline was rec- ognised for her work strengthening early years literacy through high-quality storytell- ing and staff training, ensuring reading and confidence-building are central to the library’s offer for young children. Charlotte won the Health and Wellbeing Category for her work securing a Librar- ies Connected micro- grant to introduce an interactive Rainbow Table, enhancing sup- port for people living with dementia through engaging activities that promote wellbeing and cognitive stimulation. Isobel Hunter, Librar- ies Connected chief executive, said: “Huge Honours for outstanding library staff Community minded: Charlotte and Caroline (Photo credit: Bolton Council) congratulations to all of this year’s winners and runners-up. “Our awards highlight the vital role librar- ies play in supporting their communities, but above all, they recog- nise the people whose commitment and cre- ativ ity make that impact possible.” BOLTON Library and Museum is marking the centenary of one of the largest indus- trial disputes in Brit- ish history with a special display. The General Strike took place in May 1926 and saw millions of workers across the country down tools. The Bolton Trades Council and its specially formed ‘Council of Action’ played a key coordinating role locally, including organ- ising a large-scale picket line of nearly 1,200 peo- ple and 57 motorcyclists. The display, located in Bolton Central Library, features unique archival material from the period and will run through- out July. Remembering the General Strike