We will have the chance to explore the previously unknown gem of Werneth Grange in Oldham. Built in 1871 for cotton magnate Joseph Lees, it became the Convent of the Sisters of Mercy in 1907. Although on the main road, it was hidden away behind thick hedges and trees, but has this year been converted into a conference venue, owned and operated by St Mark Universal Care.
How to get there:
Public transport: Bus 83 (every 10 minutes, takes 30 minutes) from Oldham Street, Piccadilly. Ask for Derby Street stop on Manchester Road. Walk back to crossing and it’s on the other side of Manchester Road.
By tram to Freehold Tram Stop then an indirect 12-minute walk uphill.
On street parking.
Programme
11.00 – 11.30 Tea and coffee on arrival
11.30 For those who wish, a walk around the environs of Werneth Park led by Steve Roman (please wear stout shoes)
12.15 Talk by Ash Penty-Williams CEO St Mark Universal Care www.stmarkuniversalcare.org
Tour of the buildings, including the chapel.
1.00 Christmas Lunch
Lunch will this year be catered by Open Kitchen, a sustainable catering company committed to producing food in the most sustainable and ethical way possible. They work with a range of food businesses to stop good food from being wasted, and also purchase ingredients, working only with local, sustainable, and ethical suppliers. Profits from their business go into providing food and supplying meals for people struggling with food insecurity across Greater Manchester.