Faith in the future

Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy with (l-r) Pastor Elijah Boswell, PCSO Martin Jones, Lee Marsland, Jim Matthews, president of Oldham Metro Rotary Club, and PCSO Samantha Kent-Brown.

AMBITIOUS plans to convert a derelict church into a new community centre have gone on display.

Impact Community Project and Impact Community Church have acquired the former St James Church on Bryon Street, Hollinwood and are now looking for public and business support to make the plans a reality.

The church, derelict for almost a decade, has no electricity or plumbing and needs a complete overhaul.

Volunteer Yvonne Garside said: “We had a really good turnout at the open day with lots of people visiting to find out more. The next step is to follow up on the contacts we have made and appeal for help setting up.

Greater Manchester Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy attended the event to speak about how important local community centres and groups can be.

More information from Lee Marsland (07527-981 597).