Crowds gathered in the sun as Christians Together in Calderdale put on their annual showpiece – Love Calderdale – last Saturday. While the historic Piece Hall is closed until Spring 2016 for major refurbishment and development, Love Calderdale this year moved on to the streets in Southgate, Corn Market and Russell Street and it was busier than ever.
After an opening by the Halifax Town Crier there was something for everyone. Roundabouts, donkeys, face painting, games and crafts for the children. Non-alcoholic cocktails, hot-dogs and candy floss for everyone. Tired shoppers could relax with foot and hand massage on offer or take time out to explore a labyrinth. The Bus-Oasis, hosted computer and video facilities, puppet shows and, of course, free food.
Street entertainment included the Djembe Drummers, offering to share their skills and the Fabulous Kapow Sisters amazing the crowd with high wire walking and fire juggling. Live acts compered by Graham Skirrow from Phoenix FM included St Augustine’s Centre Samba Band, New Beginnings, the Faxettes and singers. Throughout the day people could take time out in the prayer tent.
A fantastic day was brought to a close with a service on main stage with seven baptisms and the opportunity to break bread together. Love Calderdale was provided by churches of all the denominations involved in Christians Together in Calderdale as a way of saying ‘God loves you’ and ‘thank you’ to the people of Calderdale. Many local traders and people supported and helped with the event.
As Jeff Heaton, co-ordinator for the day explained,
“Without the hard work and co-operation of so many people this event would not have brought the fun it did to so many people in Halifax – thanks to everyone”.