Back in the heady days of 2003, I moved up to Oldham to live on a wonderful estate called Fitton Hill. I loved it there – flanked by old mills and boarded up houses, with a pervading smell of cakes (from the bakery down the road where everyone worked), knee deep snow and street-wide water fights, a man living up the road who kept a pet crocodile in his bath, It was amazing.
I was captivated by more than just the physcial surroundings. The residents of Fitton Hill are an astounding bunch. Gritty yet friendly, they displayed a high level of welcome to us when we moved in.
I’ll never forget the 2 young people who were unable to find a ‘welcome to your new home’ card, (not much need for them on an estate where everyone else wants to move out!) They bought all they could find… altering ‘In Deepest Sympathy’, to ‘In Deepest Welcome’. We treasured that card!
Over the past 4 years, It’s been a privilege to watch the team growing and the young people gradually finding their feet and their faith. I’ve trekked up there to watch some of them getting baptised, I’ve chatted into the night with different team members. I have been repeatedly and consistently amazed by what God has been doing there, and the vision that Chris and Laura, the team leaders have for the place.
This week, a group of young people from the estate came down to London. They had recently won the Nationwide regional award for voluntary endeavour, and were therefore competing in the national finals. I am happy to say they won!!!! This means resources for the team and a big congratulations to them all.
I’m so proud that the tireless work they put in has been recognised and celebrated.
I was excited too, when the group took a detour past my desk yesterday, taking time to swing on my chair and festoon my desk with post-it note graffiti. I still feel very connected to the team and the young people there, so it was fab to share with them and celebrate their success.
I am praying that God continues to bless, grow and use these young people to change the very fabric of Fitton Hill. They’re great!
