Silkash residents and members of the Northstone team got together recently for a festive afternoon at the Huddle. With food, drinks and entertainment on offer, not even Father Christmas could resist popping by and spreading some festive cheer.
The event marked the first time the Silkash community and members of the Northstone team have been able to come together since the first residents got their keys in December 2020. In that time more than 100 others have moved in and now call Silkash home.
Residents gathered outside to admire each other’s Christmas decorations and lights, while enjoying some festive music provided by local musicians from Eagley Brass Band. Local social enterprise The Van, run by Backup Charity, served up seasonal treats for everyone to enjoy while getting to know their neighbours, with all profits going to the charity.
Backup Charity, founded in 1992, supports 16-25 years old across Bolton who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. The charity provides supported accommodation across the town, as well as additional support focussing on mental health and employment, to increase independent living skills.
Speaking at the event, Dan Hewins, Northstone’s customer experience manager said: “Creating communities that people love is really important to us and we’re so pleased to finally be able to bring all the new residents of Silkash together for the first time, just in time for Christmas.
“Although this is our first organised event, it’s already been clear to see the strong community and friendships forming at Silkash. There’s a real mix of residents from young families to first-time buyers, those moving out of big cities and people relocating to the UK – it was lovely to see everyone getting to know each other even better today.
“As with everything we do, we wanted to involve the existing community and with the help of The Van and Eagley Brass Band we did just that. This is the first of many events to come and we had a great time getting to know everyone and kicking off the festive season.”