Guided tour of historic chapel

FLASHBACK to the launch of Professional Oldham

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BUSINESS people can enjoy guided tours of Oldham's historic George Street Chapel during a networking event.

The former chapel has been restored and converted to become a multi-purpose events venue and heritage centre.

The recently-launched Professional Oldham networking group is holding its autumn event at the Grade II listed building on October 13, 6pm to 8pm.

Professional Oldham was launched earlier this year and is partnered by Oldham Business Edge magazine, which is published quarterly by the Oldham Chronicle. Organisers aim to provide quality, enjoyable networking opportunities for local businesses and professionals without the pressure for referrals or sales.

Guests at the October 13 event will be shown around the old chapel which dates from 1815 but eventually closed for worship in 1990. It is understood to have been the country's first purpose-built Independent Methodist Chapel.

The Age UK Oldham charity bought the building in 2003 and started planning a rescue and restoration project. With support from organisations including the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Andrew Lloyd Webber Challenge Fund and English Heritage, the work began in February 2013 and was completed in October 2014.

The October 13 Professional Oldham event will be sponsored by Limetree Public Relations, which is celebrating its 10th year in business. Limetree director Bridget Batty will outline the business's work and development over the years. Bridget is also a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR).

The Professional Oldham organisers are Robbie MacDonald of Oldham Business Edge magazine and the Oldham Evening Chronicle, Suzanne Wright of Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers, Stephanie Doherty of Caremark Oldham, Bridget Batty of Limetree PR, and Angela Higham of Dr Kershaw's Hospice.

The group launched earlier this year with a wine-tasting evening hosted by Oldham writer Simon Woods at the Naked Bean cafe.

Tickets for the October 13 event cost £10 each with food and drink. To book, contact Angela Higham by emailing: professionaloldham@outlook.com.

* George Street Chapel is located at 58-65 George Street, near Spindles Shopping Centre.