Free summer holiday activities praised for bringing together Oldham families
The community of Derker came together for an afternoon of sunshine and smiles as part of Oldham Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme.
Stoneleigh Park was buzzing with activity as families enjoyed face painting, sports, arts and crafts with Oldham Play Action Group, and free bike security marking. Youngsters were thrilled to meet real-life heroes from Greater Manchester Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service – with police horses Badger and Ebenezer proving to be firm favourites.
Every child received a free lunch on arrival, including a sandwich, fruit, and a drink, courtesy of the Friends of Stoneleigh Park, who organised the event.
The day welcomed special guests Councillor Elaine Taylor, Oldham Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, and Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green.
Councillor Elaine Taylor, Oldham Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, and Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, with Cllr Angela Cosgrove of Friends of Stoneleigh Park
Councillor Taylor said: “These holiday activity events are a fantastic way to bring our communities together and to give families free support during the holidays. Summer can be an expensive time when you have children, so I’m delighted that we can provide free activities for children and families during the holidays.
“Oldham has shown a real commitment to its children and young people with events like these. A big thank you to everyone who has made this happen, and particularly the Friends of Stoneleigh Park who have organised this event.”
Deputy Mayor Kate Green added: “It is fabulous to see so many people here today. This is a great way of investing in the community and bringing families together with so many great organisations.”
Greater Manchester Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green with police horse Ebenezer
The Friends of Stoneleigh Park will continue hosting free lunch and activities every Wednesday throughout the summer from 11.30am to 3.30pm.
Across Oldham, HAF activities are running during the six-week school holidays, providing healthy meals, enriching activities, and opportunities for physical activity for children eligible for benefits-related free school meals.
For more information on our HAF programme visit www.oldham.gov.uk/haf.
