A time to reflect on loved ones lost

THE community was united in a special day of reflection organised by a primary school.

Shaw’s East Crompton St George’s School held the day of remembrance to look back on happy times and special moments with loved ones.

And donations given for the day have already raised £900 for Dr Kershaw’s Hospice in Royton — with money still pouring in.

Participants planted bulbs and released balloons with cards containing thoughts, while there was a quiet room for reflection and a remembrance book for loved ones who have died.

Supporting the event were the police and fire service with Oldham Mayor Jim McArdle, Youth Mayor Mohammed Adil, Bishop of Middleton Mark Davies and Shaw and Crompton Parish Council chairman Mari Wiswell also attending.

School administrator Denise Tyler said: “It was a day for the community and the school to remember happy times.

“We encouraged people to come and share the day. It was a really lovely event. It was not a sad day but a celebration of life.

“So many people, what with the recession and everything else, have been hit by so many things.

“We felt we wanted to do something that pulls us all back together and support each other and have a really nice day together.

“It was very moving. Now everyone wants to come back again in the spring when the bulbs have started to shoot through.”

Local garden centres and Oldham Council helped supply and plant the small bulbs, including daffodils, tulips and crocuses.

Head teacher Angela Knowles added: “The school would like to thank everyone that had anything to do with the day.”