New tricks at Derker’s Party in the Park
22nd August 2006
Plates were spinning as residents young and old enjoyed circus training at the Derker Party in the Park last Friday.
The Stoneleigh Park event, organised by Community Links and Dawn Arts in conjunction with the Oldham Rochdale Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder was a success despite rainy weather.
More than a hundred people turned out and enjoyed workshops in circus skills, percussion and enjoyed performances by Madden School of Dancing. Workshops in circus skills, which were sponsored by the developers Bellway and Gleeson Regeneration, were another success. Residents also had the chance to view the results of a heritage study into the Housing Market Renewal area and share their memories of the area.
Derker resident, May Broadbent of Mayfield Road helped out serving hot drinks on the day. She said: “Spirits were high despite the heavy rain. The dancing performances were brilliant and the children seemed to really enjoy the circus workshops. We were certainly busy all day serving teas and coffees.”
Joan Coop who has lived on Buxted Road for 38 years also volunteered on the day. She said: “The dancers were fantastic. Everyone who came had a good time and there were lots of giveaways.”
People also had the opportunity to find out more about new homes being built nearby by McInerney Homes. The Stoneleigh development, being built on the site of the former Granville Mill, will feature 73 energy efficient homes carefully designed to minimise energy use and reduce household bills. A show apartment recently opened at the site where residents can rent buy or purchase through shared ownership.
Photos: Community Support Officers Vicky Foden and Jenny Coyne try their
hand at plate spinning (above)
Lucy Kershaw balances a skittle on her
nose (below)
