Organisers of the beloved Heywood 1940s Day, a summer highlight that attracts thousands of visitors annually to the Greater Manchester town, have issued a stark warning: the event may not proceed this year unless more volunteers step forward to assist. This free annual celebration, funded by Rochdale Borough Council's Heywood Township Committee, requires approximately 10 new volunteers to bolster the existing team from Heywood Business Group, which coordinates the festivities.
Event Details and Community Impact
Typically held on a Saturday in June, the Heywood 1940s Day offers a vibrant and family-friendly experience, complete with live music, entertainment, a street party, food and drink stalls, an armed forces parade, children's fairground rides, military vehicles, and much more. Last year's edition featured military and vintage vehicles, full-size replica Hurricane and Spitfire aircraft, various displays, historical re-enactments, and 1940s-themed train trips. Many attendees dress in traditional 1940s attire, and the event extends into the evening at local pubs and bars, providing a significant economic boost to Heywood.
Urgent Appeal from Organisers
Allison Bamford, chair of Heywood Business Group, emphasised the critical need for support, stating that the event has been a cherished fixture for over fifteen years, drawing large crowds to the town. However, as visitor numbers have grown, the demands on the small volunteer team have intensified. With some members moving on or reducing their involvement due to age, the organisers face an urgent challenge to secure additional help.
"We're putting a call out to the community to ask for support, not just on the day itself, but to help us organise it too," Bamford explained. "Unfortunately, there is now a real risk that if we don't get sufficient help, the event won't be able to go ahead."
Volunteer Roles and Requirements
The available volunteer positions encompass a wide range of tasks, including setting up and dismantling stalls and attractions, visitor assistance, stewarding, health and safety oversight, event planning and management, and marketing efforts. While experience in customer service, retail, or communications is beneficial, it is not essential. Anyone aged 18 or over is encouraged to participate, with no prior expertise required.
Support from Local Authorities
Councillor Angela Brown, chair of Heywood Township, reaffirmed the commitment to funding the event, noting that Rochdale Development Agency has offered significant support through Heywood Town's Board for event management and administration. However, she stressed the necessity of having enough volunteers on the ground to organise and deliver the day successfully.
"We know other organisations are struggling to find volunteers too, it's not easy, however this really is a fantastic event to be part of and it brings such a lot to Heywood," Brown said. "So if you think you could help, please get in touch."
How to Get Involved
Interested individuals are urged to contact the organisers by emailing admin@rochdalecreates.co.uk by Wednesday, February 25. The event is scheduled to take place in Heywood, Greater Manchester, pending the recruitment of sufficient volunteers to ensure its continuation.
