Lola Berry brings Festive Fun to Bolton Town Hall

Wednesday 11th December, Bolton Town Hall was taken over with festive fun as BWFC First Team Chef James Berry and Daughter Lola hosted their Festive Afternoon Tea. The event saw a delightful spread pulled together by James himself, live music and 2 special Q&As hosted by Lola.

In 2023, Lola was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Since that diagnosis, Lola and her family have worked continually to raise funds for The Christie in an effort to help other families who may be impacted in the years to come. The Festive Afternoon Tea aimed to bring people from across Bolton together in the spirit of Christmas to help raise funds for Bolton Wanderers in the Community and The Christie Charity, two charities close to the hearts of James, Kerry and Lola. An amazing £3500 was raised to support both charities and the work they do to support our local community.

The afternoon started with drinks reception, sponsored by Bolton Stadium Hotel, in the Mayors Parlour with an intro to the afternoon from Mayor of Bolton Andrew Morgan. Once seated Kerry Thomas, Lola’s mum, gave a touching speech welcoming guests to the event and an introduction to the family and their journey with Lola. Following the initial course Lola took to the stage with Phil Heyes to interview Myles Smith, Manager of Bolton Wanderers Women’s Football Team, and BWWFC players Katie Holt and Faye Knox. Unfortunately, the team couldn’t answer the all-important question of naming all of Santa’s reindeers, but guests did get an insight into the Women’s team. However, a highlight of the afternoon had to be Lola’s interview with BWFC Legends Peter Reid and Super John McGinlay reminiscing on tales of old.

A huge thank you must go to the organisations that helped us bring the event to life including Bellas bakes, Bolton Stadium Hotel, Greenhalghs, Bidfood, Deli Fresh, Latham’s, Gornalls, Alliance, Devine desserts and Virginia Carmen Designs. We would also like to recognise the generosity of Ashley Walsh and the team from Vital Energi who matched the funds taken from the raffle on the day. Of course we have to thank the Mayor of Bolton, Andrew Morgan, and Mayoress Karen Holdsworth for hosting the event in their Parlour and Banqueting Suite.