The Great Get Together

FINISHING touches . . . At Mahdlo Saima Suleman (left), from Culture in a Box, Oldham, helps Lorna Barry dress up in Asian clothing

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SUNSHINE, face-painting and a simple cup of tea helped Oldhamers join in with The Great Get Together this weekend.

Hundreds of Oldham residents gathered at events across the borough for the national event urging people to spend time with their neighbours and celebrate everything people have in common.

The Great Get Together was organised to coincide with the first anniversary of the death of MP Jo Cox, who was murdered on June 16 last year.

Jo's family and friends came up with initiative to encourage people to follow her belief "we are far more united and have far more in common than that which divides us", taken from her first speech in Parliament.

Taking place on the hottest weekend of the year so far, events in Oldham included family fun days, community lunches and parties in the park.

Avalon Park care home, in Salem, invited Saddleworth School brass band ensemble to play for residents at their friendship-themed event. The day also featured singing from St Thomas School choir, a buffet and a chance for the community, as well as family and friends to visit.

The Mayor of Oldham, Councillor Shadab Qumer, enjoyed a chat and get-together at Tesco in Failsworth as part of The Great Get Together.

Residents at Lido House journeyed back to the groovy Seventies for their fun-filled afternoon of activities.

Entertainment included Funky Fitness and Fun, bingo, music and refreshments.

At Coalshaw Green Park, people young and old enjoyed the sunshine, henna tattoos and games in Chadderton.

There was also the chance to plant seeds, enjoy refreshments from WIFI kitchen and have a play on a bouncy castle.

Becci West, of Fullcircle NW CIC, said: "It was an awesome day and great to see local councillors and MP Jim McMahon.

"Thank you to all our families and friends that joined us."

Oldham West and Royton MP Jim McMahon said: "A wonderful afternoon in Coalshaw Green Park for the Great Get Together. Well done to volunteers for hard work."

Communities also came together at Mahdlo Youth Zone, Egerton Street, for a day of fun activities.

Families were able to enjoy events including archery lessons, adding their design to a large unified illustration and even learn some bush crafts.

There was also the chance to find out more about the youth zone and the opportunities available to young people in Oldham.

At the White Hart, Lydgate, organisers combined The Great Get Together event with fundraising for the victims of the Manchester Arena attack.

Entertainment included The Pennine Singers and brass bands and there was also the chance to get close to nature and meet a Harris Hawk.

The event, held in conjunction with Love Lydgate, Saddleworth Round Table and Saddleworth 41 Club, included classic fairground games, food and refreshments. There was also a cake, shaped like a Manchester bumble bee and baked by Jane Harvey.

• Have a look out more pictures of The Great Together on our picture sales page.