Academy lays on festive market fun

ONE of the sponsors behind Oldham’s schools revolution is aiming to provide some Christmas cheer.

Oasis Academy Oldham is to hold a Christmas market on Friday, between 4pm and 9pm, that will feature a 50ft high inflatable Toboggan Run, festive market stalls, a Saddleworth hog roast, mulled wine and mince pies and Halal samosas.

It’s the first large-scale community event to be held by Oasis in Oldham and will take place close to the proposed new-build site for their Academy at Oak Colliery Car Park, next to Hollins Road skatepark.

The event has been organised in partnership with Oldham Council.

John Alder, Principal Designate of the Academy, said: “We are really excited to be holding the Oasis Academy Oldham Christmas Market, and expect a fantastic turnout of local residents and community members.

“The market will be a real family event and is a great way to usher in the Christmas period.

“We’re pleased to be able to contribute something to the community in this way, and hope people will enjoy the evening, with the wide range of activities on offer and Christmas goods on sale.

“Personally, I am building up the courage to take on the Toboggan Run!”

Councillor Kay Knox, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said: “We have been receiving very positive feedback about the ways in which Oasis Academy Oldham — sponsors of the proposed Academy at Oak Colliery — have been working and engaging with the local community.

“This Christmas Market is just the latest example of those efforts and Oldham Council is delighted to support this event.”

Oasis is a Christian charity sponsoring the Academy that will replace Kaskenmoor and South Chadderton schools. The Academy is due to open next September.

It’s part of Oldham’s £230 million Building Schools for the Future programme to replace and refurbish every school.