A BUY Nowt festival is taking place in Bradford next week as an alternative to Black Friday consumerism.

Artworks Creative Communities and Bradford District Credit Union are to host the city’s biggest ever event of its kind in the city centre.

The festival, which is completely free, is a Yorkshire twist on the international Buy Nothing Day which campaigns against poverty caused by consumer debt and excess.

Artworks first held a Buy Nowt Day in 2016, inviting people to rediscover how much fun can be had without spending.

Organisers say that since then, as austerity has bitten deeper, increasing numbers of people are feeling the pinch.

They are keen to promote a low tech, lower cost and less stressful Christmas for Bradfordians.

At the event, which takes place on Friday, November 23, from 10am to 6pm at the former Aspire-I building in John Street, there will be creative activities for all ages and the chance to contribute to a larger scale project that will be on display.

In addition there will also be debt, budget and benefit advice and help available in a private room.

Furthermore there will be information available about where you can find free things in Bradford, such as food banks and recycled goods, as well as free refreshments on offer.

The festival will also carry on to the Saturday, from 10am to 4pm.

A number of Bradford organisations are involved, including Bradford Markets, and Bradford Council’s facilities and anti-poverty strategy group.

Funding has also been received from Manningham Housing Association, CNET, Bradford Trades Union Council and Lush Charity Pot.

Groups taking part in the Buy Nowt days include Cecil Green Arts, Storehouse, Inn Churches, Carers Resource and The Linking Network. Artworks elves will be encouraging people to make their own decorations and cards.

Ged Walker, director of Artworks Creative Communities, said: “Buy Nowt celebrates the resilience and creativity of people and organisations from across Bradford by getting together, having fun and making art. It’s great that we’ve been able to work with such a wide range of groups this year, and people who come along will be able to try out something new – for free – and create something lovely to take home.”

Ian Brewer, financial inclusion officer at Bradford District Credit Union, which is based in City Hall, said: “Black Friday can place people under enormous pressure.

“Buy Nowt is all about helping find a way out and different approaches.

“With great support from Manningham Housing Association and Incommunities we are able to offer debt and money guidance throughout the two days, as well as offering positive savings alternatives through the Credit Union.

“Plus there will be lots of creative ideas for the festive season, and plenty of things to make and take away with you. All at no charge whatsoever.”

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Zafar Ali, is also expected to attend.