Neighbours urged to show their local pride

WORKING together... Oldham Council leader Councillor Jim McMahon (left) joins participants at the launch of Pride in Failsworth

FAILSWORTH residents got together at the official launch of Pride in Failsworth at a Good Neighbour Day event.

Held at Walton House supported housing, in Grafton Street, residents were joined by people of all ages from across Failsworth to enjoy the fun and activities.

Pride in Failsworth is a neighbourhood management project which aims to make better neighbours and neighbourhoods by involving local people to help make a difference.

It plans to support groups and individuals already working within the community and help co-ordinate services to develop neighbourhoods where residents look out for each other.

Jim McMahon, council leader and Failsworth East councillor, opened the event, which was hosted by Housing 21.

Housing 21 is the lead organisation and is working in partnership with social landlords, including First Choice Homes, Places for People, Regenda as well as Oldham Council, the police and others.

Councillor McMahon said: “By encouraging people to come together and talk more about the issues affecting their communities this can help people to become better neighbours who support each other and make a real difference.

“This event was an excellent first meet-up and thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended.

“It was particularly heartening to see that there were many older people present and I am sure the feedback received will lead to some interesting and innovative future developments of activities and services in the area.”

Kath Miller, Housing 21’s operations manager in Oldham, said: “This was a fantastic day with a really great feel.

“It’s the start of many more neighbourhood events and new ideas for ‘Pride in Failsworth’.”