A 'summer of fun'

Cricket Coaching for children from Lower Falinge at Thornham Cricket Club

1 More Image(s) In Gallery

Youngsters are looking back on a summer of fun, following an action-packed summer holiday activities.

Over 360 young people aged 8-12 from across the Borough were able to take advantage of the Rochdale Boroughwide Housing (RBH) activity programme.

Ruth Sillence, RBH Communities First Co-ordinator, said: “Sometimes the summer holidays can be difficult for young families, and keeping the children entertained can be costly.

"RBH provided four weeks of free activities so that the children can play in a safe and secure environment, joining with other young people from across the Borough, making new friends and learning new skills. This gives the young people ‘skills for life’ and helps the families to understand that RBH is looking after not just their homes but their community as well.”

A wide variety of events were held including: 

• Bug hunting and vegetable planting at Q Gardens in Kirkholt, with help from Groundwork Oldham and Rochdale.
• Pick and Party events in Alkrington, Kirkholt, Barleyfield, Back O' Th' Moss and Smallbridge, with a community litter-pick followed by a rewarding fun party for participants.
• Cricket coaching for children from across the borough at Thornham Cricket Club.
• Art and craft activities, including scarecrow making.
• Multi-sports days hosted by Rochdale AFC.
• Free swimming vouchers were handed out for young people and families across the Borough.

Over 40 RBH employees volunteered their time to help deliver the activities.

Jonathan Mamczynski, RBH Communications Officer, volunteered at the cricket sessions at Thornham Cricket Club. He said: “As ever, lending support to the Communities First summer programme was a pleasure and so much fun! The team do a great job in coordinating the activities.

"At Thornham, the children were given a great opportunity to get some coaching from a professional coach. Witnessing the progress some of them made in only a few hours was so rewarding; you could definitely spot some natural talent, and I really hope that some of them take what they learnt further on, whether that be at school or by joining a club team.”

Nickie Hallard, RBH Director of Resources, lent a hand at the 'Pick and Party' in Smallbridge and at one of the art and craft sessions. She said: “I was really impressed by the enthusiasm and politeness of the young people and also the volunteers who give so much of their time so freely. It is great to see our tenants and employees work together for the benefit of the communities we serve.”