ONE of the biggest events in the town’s calendar will return next month.

The 31st Disability Awareness Day takes place at Walton Hall and Garden on Sunday, July 17.

It returns to its usual slot for 2022, having been one of the first major diary dates to return in Warrington following the disruption of Covid-19 in September last year.

First held in 1992, the free event regularly attracts more than 20,000 visits and has grown to the stage where versions have been held in 13 countries around the world.

Around 200 mobility and independent living suppliers from across the UK will exhibit their wares while activities will include scuba diving, inclusive cricket, wheelchair American football, wheelchair basketball, martial arts and wheelchair, physical disability and learning disability rugby league.

Warrington Guardian:

Performers in the Arts Marquee include Ella Together Performance Group, Creating Adventures Beautiful Noise Choir, Carly Ryan, Dream Team Drama, BSL Signing Choir, Stars Drama and Signature Brass Band.

Meanwhile, the main area while host sled dogs, birds of prey, PDRL and martial arts displays.

One of the highlights of this year’s show will be charity Warrington Disability Partnership’s Disability Heritage Project – including a display of vintage mobility equipment such as a 1970s Invacar AC70, a 1917 three-wheeled invalid trike and a pre-First World War wicker wheelchair.

DAD 2022 will be preceded by a week of events in the park, including a comedy and curry night in aid of this year’s PDRL World Cup – hosted by Adam Hills, host of Channel 4’s the Last Leg.

Dave Thompson, event founder and chief executive of WDP, said: “The back-story to DAD is a great example of just how far a can-do attitude can take you.

“There is no greater satisfaction for me than seeing DAD’s army of more than 100 volunteers coming together to support people to enjoy and access our week-long programme of events, all of which are about celebrating diversity and promoting independent living.

“A huge thank you to all of our sponsors, including principal sponsors Expanse Learning and United Utilities.

“There is something for everyone during DAD and DAD Week and I urge people of all ages to take the opportunity to join us at Walton Hall Gardens.”