Homelessness charity hosts spectacular 25th birthday carnival

Giant puppets, a colourful carnival performance and local musicians entertained the crowds at a celebration event to mark the 25th anniversary of Emmaus Mossley.

Homelessness charity Emmaus Mossley welcomed hundreds of friends, supporters and members of the local community to their 25th birthday carnival.

The day-long event included live music, poetry readings, guest speakers, activities and a spectacular carnival performance.

Carnival experts Global Grooves organised and delivered the centre-piece carnival with a cast of volunteer drummers, dancers, brass and reed players.

The carnival performance was complimented by giant puppets who welcomed visitors and wowed the crowds throughout the day.

Returning to Emmaus Mossley for the event was Terry Waite CBE, President of Emmaus UK.

He said: “Twenty-five years ago I visited Mossley as they were preparing to open a new Emmaus.

"The building looked sad and neglected and to cap it all, it was damp.

"Never daunted, the little team of companions and volunteers set about making it into what it is today - a real home for companions and a vital part of the local community.

“I was tremendously impressed with what had been achieved on the 25th anniversary.

"The atmosphere was warm and welcoming.

"The damp has disappeared, and companions, volunteers, staff and local residents had a terrific day.

"All I can say is well done Mossley and well done Emmaus.

"I am proud to be President of Emmaus UK.”

Emmaus Mossley supports 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home, work, companionship and individual support.

Since opening in 1997 as the first Emmaus community in the North West, Emmaus Mossley has supported more than 500 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.

Darren Bateman, one of the people supported by Emmaus Mossley, said: “Our 25th birthday carnival was an outstanding day and I’m really proud of all companions, volunteers, staff and trustees.

“I want to give a big thank you to everyone who joined us and made the event a very special occasion for our community.

"The atmosphere was great and I can’t wait for our next event!”

The celebration included poetry and live music performed by Séamus Fox, Dollar Bombers, The Pistuns, The Maitlands, Mossley Ukulele Group, Good Vibrations and the Spring Chickens.

Stalls, activities and food was provided by Mossley Heritage Centre, Phantasmagoria, The Vale, Haircuts for Homeless, Pattisons Family Butchers, Scona and Willow Wood Hospice.

Andrew Kilburn, Chair of Emmaus Mossley, said: “The Emmaus Mossley 25th birthday carnival was a fantastic day of celebration.

"It was wonderful to see such amazing support from our friends and supporters.

"We are very grateful and are now planning for our next 25 years in Mossley.”

Over the past quarter of a century, Emmaus Mossley’s Longlands Mill base has steadily developed and the community has grown.

The charity’s main income is raised from their large second-hand superstore which sells donated and refurbished furniture, clothes, bric-a-brac and vintage items.

Emmaus has also become a hub for the local community, hosting events, voluntary groups and as a valuable resource for reuse.

To find out more and support Emmaus Mossley, click here

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