Lanterns Light Up Tameside

Published by New Charter for New Charter Housing Trust Group in Communities and also in Housing

STREETS were awash with light and sound during a series of lantern parades.

Winter carnivals organised by New Charter, residents groups, Children’s Centres and Police took place in seven New Charter neighbourhoods across Tameside, Greater Manchester.

The parades were lent a real carnival atmosphere by Brazilian and samba bands. 

Although the atmosphere was distinctly Brazilian, the weather was far from tropical!  But that didn’t stop around hundreds of people joining in the events.

The final procession snaked its way through the streets surrounding Audenshaw Community Centre on Thursday, December 17.  Afterwards revellers were warmed up with a hot-pot supper and dance at the community centre, where youngsters had the chance to visit Father Christmas in his grotto.

New Charter Housing’s Regeneration Officer Laura Middleton, said:  “The parades have been a massive success, even the freezing weather didn’t prevent people from joining in.  The atmosphere at all of the events was absolutely electric and it was lovely to see people coming out of their houses along the route to wave and cheer us on!

“This was a wonderful example of what partnership working can achieve – the events wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support of police, local ward councillors and staff from Children’s Centres.”

Executive Director of Neighbourhoods tony Powell added:  “It’s fantastic to see residents in New Charter neighbourhoods both young and old, celebrating together.   Events like these really bring communities together.”

Lantern parades also took place at Waterton Lane and Micklehurst estates in Mossely, Crowswood estate in Stalybridge, Harbour Farm and St Mary’s estate in Newton, and Central Estate in Dukinfield.