I’m writing to share St Peter’s Halliwell parish amazing journey over the last year.

This time last year the first Party in Park took place in Moss Bank Park and saw more than 3,000 people and 36 community groups and organisations join forces for what turned out to be an amazing day for the community. Such was the impact that we decided to repeat it this year and issued a challenge to go bigger and better. The resulting Party in the Park which took place on Sunday June 28 did not disappoint!

We booked a bigger stage and sound system, more attractions, and added a Grand Finale Concert with professional bands and a local Bolton’s Got Talent show.

The day started with an open-air church service, led by young people and featuring a live band and an inspirational preacher which attracted a congregation of over 500 people. Preacher Paul Lloyd, a pastor from Salford and ex-gangland hard-man from the East-end of London, shared a powerful testimony of how God had transformed his life and the life of his father. There was a mass launch of over two-hundred balloons containing messages of hope.

There were performances from bands, a DJ, dance groups, a fire-eating act, magician, and music from Church Road and St Peter’s Primary Schools. Over 5,000 visitors enjoyed over 40 side-shows. In total more than 200 volunteers from local churches, residents and community groups worked together.

The best thing about the day was that almost everything was entirely free. We brought together partners from across the community, including churches, community groups, public sector partners, charities and businesses who share the common aim to put on a great day. We know that finance is tough for many people and wanted the party be a fantastic opportunity for everyone to have fun for as little cost as possible. We were delighted that thanks to the generosity of many individuals and organisations we have been able to achieve this. Particular thanks go to the event co-ordinator Matt Gorton from St Peter’s parish, who did an amazing job, and also to Steve Bailey, the Events Manager at Bolton Council, for his tireless support.

So where so we go from here? We want to become a church that is truly for the community. Our vision is to strengthen links with community partners, public-sector organisations, in fact with anyone of goodwill. We are looking for more opportunities to reach out across Bolton, particularly with a passion to support young people. We would love to hear what people think. Please contact St Peter’s Parish through Reverend Alan Saunders on 01204 840674 or alan@stpetersparish.info.

Rev Alan Saunders

Curate

St Peter’s Halliwell