Two streets in Pleck, Walsall have each thrown a family Christmas party just for their street, bringing the community together with something really positive.
In both cases, a new Street Association is behind the venture, attracting residents from all backgrounds, including one from Lapland!
The Kinsley Street Association party was attended by about 60 people, including Santa, and the neighbourhood police team was there to join in the fun.
Similarly, Scarborough Road residents put on an extravagant party, with local curry house the Bradford Arms donating curry for all, with several other firms offering generous prizes. Again, about 60 took part. Over £300 was raised in support of the Manor Hospital, with some going to the Neo-Natal Unit and some as Christmas presents to distribute on the children’s ward.
Martin Graham, who’s been pioneering Street Associations on streets in challenging neighbourhoods, said, “It’s amazing how these two streets – in a neighbourhood known for disadvantage – have pulled together, been inventive, entrepreneurial and created something to be proud of. This is about building community and emphasising the positive, helping transform these two streets into places people don’t want to leave”.
Both Street Associations have linked with Neighbourhood Watch and both are talking about taking part in The Big Lunch on 7th June 2015.
More on Street Associations at http://streetassociations.org
