Thousands turn out for Mayor’s Community Weekend

Mayor of the West Midlands Andy Street has thanked everyone who took part in the first annual Mayor’s Community Weekend.

More than 10,000 people are estimated to have come together over the weekend June 30 to July 1 to celebrate their community at more than 100 events funded by the National Lottery.

Thanks to a new partnership between the West Midlands Combined Authority and the Big Lottery Fund, groups were awarded a share of more than £55,000 of National Lottery funding after being invited to apply for grants of up to £500 to host events.

Mayor Andy Street said he was delighted so many people participated in the weekend and paid tribute to the great community spirit in the West Midlands.

He said: “From Caribbean tea parties to cycling events, picnics in the park to community barbeques, the Community Weekend showcased the best of the West Midlands.

“I’m thrilled so many organisations were able to hold events, and that so many people turned out to share their sense of community.

“I’d also like to thank the National Lottery players for raising the funding necessary to allow everyone to show off their pride in our region.”

The celebrations spread right across the West Midlands, including events in Ludlow, Worcester, Coventry, Cannock, Swadlincote, Shrewsbury, Stoke, Leamington Spa, Telford and Birmingham.

James Harcourt, England Grant-Making Director at the Big Lottery Fund, said: “It’s been brilliant seeing people across the West Midlands come together to celebrate their community.

"The Mayor’s Community Weekend was a fantastic way to connect neighbours who live side by side every day to share experiences and make new memories.

“Thanks to National Lottery players, it was a memorable weekend which we hope will inspire people to do more together in the future.”

The Big Lottery Fund distributes money raised by National Lottery players for good causes. In 2016/17, it awarded £64 million to the West Midlands to fund bright ideas, big or small. Ninety per cent of the grants it makes are for under £10,000.

To find out more about the Mayor’s Community Weekend, including a gallery of images from events around the region, visit www.wmca.org.uk/mcw

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