Norris Green Councillors have been working with local community groups and residents to raise the profile of Norris Green Park. The park is on the perimeter of what was the ‘Boot Estate’. There are many new and old residents that have moved back in to the new estate but don’t realise they have this lovely green space on their doorstep. Liverpool City Council and Mayor Joe Anderson are investing in the park, and Councillors Barry Kushner, Alan Walker and Sharon Ross are supporting activities in the park. There are plans for future events in the park, and any Norris Green residents who would like to get involved or have any ideas for the park can contact any of the Councillors.
Picnic in the Park
The Picnic in the Park event was organised by Autism in Motion, a newly established CIC, that deliver a wide range of activities for children with Autism and their siblings, they also provide training and support for the parents/carers. aimautism@hotmail.com
The group wanted to celebrate National Autism Week, and decided to organise a Picnic in the Park Fundraising Event. Hannah Tickle, Jo Galbraith and Terri Norton (founder members) approached Norris Green Community Alliance for support and advice in organising the event.
Jo said, “We’re so thrilled the day has been such a success, it’s been hard work and scary organising today and we couldn’t have done it without Denise Turner and Colin Harris”, Hannah agreed “the support and advice from Norris Green Community Alliance, Council Officers and local Councillors has been invaluable” Terri added “roll on the next event”
The day was fun-filled from start to finish, with 400+ residents attending and over £500 raised for activities for the Easter period. Many local groups attended the event and provided activities to support the day. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association came along and did Henna Tattoos and raised £75 for Autism in Motion. There were also performances from The Liverpool Signing Choir, local gymnasts, and much more.
Councillor Sharon Ross said, “This has been an amazing day, Norris Green Park is a hidden gem in Norris Green, and both this event and the International Women’s Day Celebration highlight how the community and the local Councillors work together to support our community and make the best use of out green spaces, I hope this becomes an annual community event”.
International Women’s Day
On the 12th March, to celebrate International Women’s Day, local Councillors, Community Groups and residents from across Norris Green organised a parade from Scargreen Park, through the estate, culminating in Norris Green Park.
The event was an opportunity to celebrate International Women’s Day and also for the community groups across Norris Green to work together to promote their services or raise funds for their group. The local scout group paraded with us and also baked cakes to sell on the day and raised £96 for their group. Norris Green Youth Centre made jams for their stand and also to promote the youth centre, which celebrates it’s 60th Anniversary in September. Ellergreen Young People’s Project (EYPP) and Kinship Carer’s made crafts and beauty products, and Triple C (local churches) sold hand knitted crafts.
Despite the rain, local drama group Love Acting gave a moving performance of ‘Read All About It’ a play about the negative impact of welfare reform and zero hour contracts. Paula Currie wrote the play and said “Love Acting decided to perform at the event because having worked with some of the groups in Norris Green we recognise their commitment to the community, many of the cast are local residents and this is a beautiful place for outdoor performances, even in the rain”. There were also performances by local singers Deena Warmsley ans Elisha Blackwood, and an inspirational speech by Maria Eves.
To view a short film of the day:
