Bolton Charity Leaders Swap Boardrooms for the Ballroom to Support Bolton Hospice

Two of Bolton’s charity chief executives are stepping out of their comfort zones and into sequins as part of a high-energy fundraising effort that showcases the very best of collaboration, civic pride and community leadership across the borough.

Lauren McKechnie, Chief Executive of Age UK Bolton, and Ben Lawton, Chief Executive of Bolton Wanderers in the Community, are taking part in this year’s Strictly Learn to Dance, an annual community fundraising event in support of Bolton Hospice.

With both Lauren and Ben also serving as board members on the We Are Bolton Ambassador Board, the pair say the timing felt right to move beyond words and into action.

Lauren McKechnie, Chief Executive of Age UK Bolton, said: “As ambassadors for Bolton, it felt like a brilliant opportunity to step out of our comfort zones, into our sequins, and really show up — not just to talk about collaboration, but to live it. This is how we do things in Bolton. We actively do the doing, and we do it together — in support of another incredible charity and the people of this town.”

The event will take place on Friday 27th March at the Toughsheet Community Stadium, home of Bolton Wanderers, and promises an evening of entertainment, competition and celebration — all in aid of a charity that supports some of Bolton’s most vulnerable residents.

Bolton Hospice provides compassionate care and support for individuals and families living with long-term illness, as well as specialist end-of-life and palliative care. Its services play a vital role across Bolton and rely heavily on fundraising and community generosity to continue.

Ben Lawton, Chief Executive of Bolton Wanderers in the Community, added: “Bolton has a strong tradition of organisations coming together for the good of the town. This event captures that perfectly — it’s about shared purpose, community spirit and backing a charity that supports people at some of the most difficult moments in their lives.”

Alongside running their respective charities, Lauren and Ben are committing to training multiple times a week, learning four dance routines, with the salsa as their main competitive dance — a significant personal commitment in support of the cause.

Together, they have set an ambitious £3,000 fundraising target, and are encouraging individuals, businesses and partners across Bolton and Greater Manchester to help them smash it.

Dr Leigh Vallance, Chief Executive of Bolton Hospice, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Lauren, Ben and everyone involved in Strictly Learn to Dance for choosing to support Bolton Hospice. Funds raised through events like this make a real and tangible difference, enabling us to continue providing compassionate, specialist care to patients and families when they need us most. Seeing local leaders come together in this way sends a powerful message about the strength and generosity of our community.”

Whether you are already based in and around Bolton, or looking for an opportunity to visit and experience the borough for the first time, Strictly Learn to Dance is being promoted as a true We Are Bolton moment — a vibrant snapshot of the town’s civic pride, camaraderie and charitable spirit.

Often likened to a night at the darts, the event promises glitterballs and sparkle, big personalities, friendly competition and an electric atmosphere. Tickets are available via the Bolton Hospice website, and donations can be made directly to Bolton Hospice or via the Stepping Up for Bolton Hospice JustGiving page.

Those unable to attend in person are still encouraged to support the cause by donating or sharing the appeal, with every contribution helping to sustain the vital work of Bolton Hospice.