About Us
Your local group, bringing Bolton’s Irish community together to celebrate our heritage, share stories, and enjoy great company. From music to community events, there’s something for everyone – and everyone’s welcome!
Bringing Bolton’s Irish community together!
Hello and welcome to the Bolton Irish Association! We’re a community group with a simple goal: to bring the Irish community in Bolton together, wherever we can. Whether you’re Irish, have Irish roots, or just love the warmth and spirit of Irish culture, we’d love to have you involved.
Our Story
We’ve been part of Bolton’s community for years, starting out at the much-loved Bolton Irish Centre. From 1999, the Centre was a home for all things Irish – music, sport, events, and most importantly, the people. While we don’t have the Centre anymore, we’ve taken that spirit with us and now run as a “roaming” group, hosting our events and meetups at different venues around town. Wherever we go, we bring the craic and a warm Irish welcome!
Our Vision
At the Bolton Irish Association, we want to keep the local Irish spirit alive and thriving. It’s not just about celebrating Irish culture – though we do that brilliantly! – it’s about bringing people together, making friends, and building a stronger, happier community.
What Matters Most To Us:
- Having Fun: Life’s too short not to enjoy ourselves. Our events are about laughter, music, and good times.
- Community Spirit: Whether it’s lending a hand or sharing a chat, we’re here for each other.
- Keeping Our Heritage Alive: Irish culture, from the music to the stories, is at the heart of everything we do.
- Making Connections: It’s about the people – catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.
Proudly Serving Your Local Irish Community
The Committee
We’re run by a group of passionate people who care deeply about the Irish community in Bolton. Our committee is made up of local people who love getting together, sharing ideas, and making sure everyone feels welcome. For 2024/25 your committee members are Mick Gargan (Chair), Damien Livingstone (Treasurer / Vice-Chair), Kathryn Flatley (Secretary), Darren Burton, John McCaffery, Liam Hanley, Elaine Tyler, Mary Hodgkinson, Bernie Keegan, Patrick Flatley, Mick O’Neill, Josie Gargan
Get Involved!
Find out more about the latest events and activities where you are more than welcome to come and join us…
Building Community & Celebrating Heritage
Our Supporters
Irish Government Emigrant Support Programme
The Irish Government’s Emigrant Support Programme has been vital in helping us celebrate our heritage and support the Irish community here in Bolton. Through their commitment to Irish diaspora organisations worldwide, we’re able to preserve and promote our culture while addressing the needs of our community.
The National Lottery
Community
Fund
Thanks to funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, we can deliver meaningful events and projects that bring people together, celebrate our shared culture, and strengthen our community connections. We’re incredibly grateful for the support that helps us grow and thrive as an organisation.
European
Social
Fund
The European Social Fund (ESF) supports our efforts to create opportunities, promote inclusion, and strengthen our community. Their support allows us to continue with initiatives that bring people together, support wellbeing, and ensure everyone feels connected and valued within the Bolton Irish community.