BBC Radio 2 presenter Vernon Kay returned to his roots with a visit to a youth project in Bolton that benefits from BBC Children In Need's support.
During the lead-up to the charity's upcoming appeal show, he took time to see firsthand how Be The Change has made a positive impact on local youngsters. This organisation provides a welcoming space where art and sports sessions create a vibrant community hub.
Kay, 50, expressed his joy at being back in Bolton, especially for such an inspiring occasion, saying: "I always love being back in Bolton, but this visit was truly special.
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“I had never quite realised how many projects BBC Children In Need fund until I took on my ultra ultra marathon challenge for Radio 2 last year, and being able to visit one of those in my home town doing such impactful work that makes a massive difference to young people in the community was really special.
"Meeting with the young people and chatting with them I could really see why they love going there. I did take part in a little bit of their football session too, and I was impressed to hear that a lot of them were (Bolton) Wanderers fans."
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The visit also allowed Kay to meet Daniel Sakula, the founder of the project and a former refugee who was raised in Bolton. Mr Sakula founded Be The Change with the vision of securing a better future for the youth in the area.
Reflecting on Kay's visit, Mr Sakula said: "It was great to have Vernon come and visit us and share a bit about what we do here with him. I think he was really impressed, and the young people were excited to be able to chat with him.

"At Be The Change we offer huge support to children from across Bolton, when lots of youth services have been cut. We are able to give them a safe space to come and socialise and we also encourage our young people to get involved with community initiatives. Coming here can be life changing for them.”
Be the Change has been awarded a £60,000 grant by BBC Children in Need, to be received over three years, supporting their delivery of youth club programmes.

A prestigious line-up for this year's BBC Children In Need show includes Paralympian Ade Adepitan, comedian Mel Giedroyc, ex-Saturdays singer Rochelle Humes, comic Chris Ramsey, actor Lenny Rush alongside Kay himself. The special segment featuring Kay's visit was scheduled for broadcast on Thursday on BBC One's BBC Breakfast.
Following that, he will host the BBC Children In Need Appeal Show on Friday, November 15 starting from 7pm.