Rochdale Riverside hosts a swashbuckling fun day for Jolly Josh

Rochdale Riverside hosts a swashbuckling fun day for Jolly Josh

Shoppers at Rochdale Riverside enjoyed a rollicking pirate-themed fun day this weekend, marking the introduction of the centre's new Charity of the Year, Jolly Josh.

Families participated in a lively tombola and snapped selfies with Jolly Josh and his enthusiastic fundraising crew. The highlight of the day was a thrilling hunt for chocolate gold coins, generously distributed by amiable pirates as they meandered through the shops on Riverside Walk.

Liz Dodd, a fundraiser at Jolly Josh, said: “Today has been a wonderful day and it has been great to see smiles on so many faces and have the support from so many people. We are delighted to be Rochdale Riverside's chosen charity of the year and hope the partnership will raise awareness of Jolly Josh and our work - enriching the lives of children, their parents, caregivers, and siblings in a nurturing environment where they can thrive together.”

On announcing the Charity of the Year partnership, Rachel Byrne, centre manager at Rochdale Riverside, said: “The Jolly Josh Centre is a hidden gem. It plays such a vital role in supporting families in our community, so we are delighted to pledge our commitment to supporting them and raising awareness of their work”.

The Jolly Josh Centre welcomes children and young adults aged 0-19, who live with profound and multiple learning disabilities, complex medical needs, or physical disabilities, providing a haven of safety, support, and inclusivity. 

Based in Castleton, its purpose-built facility offers a world of enriching play, social engagement, and hydrotherapy experiences in a fully accessible space. 

The Jolly Josh centre is also home to a ‘Changing Places’ toilet, providing a clean, safe, and dignified space for disabled individuals from across the country visiting Rochdale, ensuring that everyone can experience the town with comfort and ease.