Archbishop Stephen Cottrell and Bishop David Walker visit Rochdale

Date published: 06 March 2023

The Archbishop of York and the Bishop of Manchester visited Rochdale last week during a tour of the Diocese of Manchester.

One of the organisations they visited was Rochdale Foodbank which provides food for over 10,000 people every year. Started by local churches and community groups in 2012 with the aim of stopping hunger in their local area, the foodbank has quickly expanded and is now supported by over 100 volunteer staff.

Archbishop Stephen and Bishop David visited the foodbank to meet with volunteers and find out more about the work they do.

The economic crisis has only added to the demand for the foodbank’s services, as a result their stocks are running very low. If you are able to donate any non-perishable food items, funds or carrier bags please get in touch with them Rochdale Foodbank

The next stop on the itinerary was a visit to Nelson Street Church situated in a building that has a long history as a Temperance Hall, a dance hall, a nightclub and a restaurant.

With funding from the Church of England’s Strategic Development Fund, and in partnership with the Church Revitalisation Trust, the hall has been converted into an adaptable space.
 

Read more: New church opens in Rochdale town centre in building formerly used as restaurant and nightclubPublished: 25 June 2021

The Archbishop heard from several local clergy who shared the work they are doing in their own parishes around the Rochdale area and stories from Christians who have come to faith through the ministry of our churches.

Archbishop Stephen and Bishop David then attended Rochdale Sixth Form college to meet students and staff. They ended the day at Rochdale AFC to learn more about the club and the many positive ways they support their community.