Get a glimpse of what’s on in East Central Rochdale

From mountain biking to gardening, boxing to swimming, residents of the neighbourhoods of East Central Rochdale have been sharing their interests, pastimes and hobbies.

The project, supported by the Oldham Rochdale HMR Pathfinder, has already shown a fascinating variety of activities enjoyed by local people.

To celebrate this wealth of activity people from across Wardleworth, Hamer, Townhead, Mayfield, Cloverhall and Bellshill are invited to drop in to a community event on Saturday 11 October, from 12 - 4pm, at Wardleworth Community Centre, South Street.

Residents and local groups are invited to come along to share their passions and pastimes, exhibiting what they do or demonstrating their activity. The day is also an opportunity to find out more about new interests and meet new people.

As part of an arts strategy for the Pathfinder, the team, including artist Andy Abbott, is working with residents to explore the relationships people have with issues such as culture, arts, regeneration, and the local environment.

Andy said: “Opportunities like this, where people are able to get together to share and talk about what makes their place so unique, are crucial in building local confidence. There’s a lot to be proud of in areas undergoing change. We hope that this event will help to highlight that.”

Abdul Rassaq, a local resident and businessman, is a keen gardener and through his passion, has opened his garden for young people to learn the wonder of growing their own flowers and vegetables.

Abdul said: “I think everyone should get involved with doing something for their community, they can be as creative as they like. It builds trust and community harmony. I am a member of a group ‘Wardleworth for All’ and every Sunday during the month of Ramadan we cleaned a different area each week. Everyone can do something to get involved."

Community Capacity Development Worker Kate Arnold said: “The day will be a great chance to share our passions and pastimes. It shows we can all have a voice in shaping our community. By sharing our interests with each other, we can see what people do and learn about other projects that cross the generations.”

To take part contact Andy on 07834 696724, email festivalofpastimes@yahoo.com or simply turn up on the day.