‘We’re bringing the Queen's Crescent community together’

Published: 29 July, 2010
by HEATHER McKAY

OLD and young people will take to the streets at a community festival in Gospel Oak next week. 

Co-ordinator Mohammed Mamdani said he had high hopes for the Queen’s Crescent Festival, which will be held on August 7.

“We are hoping to bring together a lot of groups, not just cultural but also different age groups,” he said. 

“There is a nervousness among the old about young people and their association with crime. What we want to do is create corridor of communication between these groups – it is very much an inter-generational event.”

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Abdul Quadir, will open this year’s festival and organisers hope up to 3,000 people will come to enjoy the musical, sporting and artistic activities.

Chairman of the Queen’s Crescent Community Association Board of Trustees Mick Farrant said: “The idea really is about community cohesion and about getting all the people in the community from different cultures together for one day a year to have fun.”

The event has also been tailored to give Gospel Oak residents the chance to learn more about employment opportunities.

Mr Mamdani said there will be stalls catering for those wanting to further their careers, including a CV workshop.

He added: “The idea behind it is to broaden people’s horizons in the recession and explore what learning providers there are. 

“We want to use the exciting and fun festival atmosphere to encourage people to consider new opportunities in these tough economic times.”

The entertainment on stage will bring together artists from different cultures and backgrounds, and a group of Brazilian musicians will take part in a parade.

As well as a family sports day and football tournament, a host of sporting workshops will cater for all ages.

Circuit training, “boxercise” and chair-based exercises will allow everyone, regardless of their level of fitness, to engage in physical activity. 

Foodies can sample cuisines from countries ranging from Somalia to the West Indies, whilst community and specialist groups will cater for those wanting to dabble in handicraft and art.