A group of 28 neighbours and friends living near Vale Park have formed a new volunteer organisation to save a summer of free events and celebrate a major milestone. The group, which operates under the Facebook page Valeparkvolunteers2026, formed on Tuesday, June 2, after a previous voluntary organisation disbanded and cancelled all free public gatherings.
New volunteer group organises seven free events
Working without an initial budget but with support from the local council, the new team organised seven free events across July and August. The effort culminated in a huge centenary celebration for the park’s iconic bandstand on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23.
The community effort has brought together local schools, charities, neighbourhood groups, and national organisations, including supermarket community champions. Schoolchildren have played a central role in preparing the park for the 100-year milestone.
Schoolchildren contribute artwork and banners
Pupils at New Brighton Primary created 169 posters describing what the park and bandstand mean to them. Children from St Peter’s and Paul painted a custom anniversary banner. Additional decorative contributions include a hand-knitted and crocheted banner made by the Wirral Chinese Association, as well as hand-knitted bunting created by the Black Pearl New Brighton volunteer group.
To highlight the history of the park, volunteers crafted handmade Victorian and 1920s flapper figures to display throughout the gardens. Volunteers also installed an Alice in Wonderland scarecrow display early as part of the local free community scarecrow festival.
Centenary weekend offers fundraising opportunities
As part of the centenary weekend, local charities and voluntary groups were invited to host fundraising stalls free of charge on Saturday, August 22. This gave non-profit causes an opportunity to profile their work and raise vital funds.
The group of 28 active volunteers stepped in after the previous voluntary organisation disbanded and cancelled all free public gatherings, ensuring the community could still enjoy a summer of events and mark the bandstand’s centenary.
