Love thy neighbours – Annette Road street party

Published: 16 July, 2010
by RÓISÍN GADELRAB

KINDLY firefighters hosed down the boiling crowd at the packed-out Annette Road street party on Saturday.

As temperatures soared to their hottest this year, up to 1,000 people flocked to the festivities in Annette and Lowman roads.

The neighbourhood party used to be a regular fixture but died out about 20 years ago, only to be revived by residents five in 2005. 

Nigel Woodford, who lives on Annette Road and is one of those responsible for bringing back the festivities, said: “We had much more support than usual. It was scorching, everyone was sunburned, but the fire engine came and hosed everyone down.”

He and neighbour Becky Franklyn-Thompson organised the celebrations, which raised £1,000 for the next party.

Mr Woodford said: “We had five bands and a proper PA system and stage courtesy of Islington Council. Drivers and Norris also gave us £200, which we put towards it.”

Arsenal in the Community ran a penalty shot stand, there were sports for children, clowning classes, juggling, badge-making, face-painting, and smoothies. 

Mr Woodford said: “It was all very local – that was the whole point. 

“There was one man who was living in his house for 10 years and this was the first time he’d spoken to someone four doors away. At one stage I said on the PA system ‘turn around and say hello to your neighbours’.”