Newton Road's 'big lunch' was actually a very British tea party - reports Kate Whyley. The 'big lunch' initiative gave us an excuse to have an informal fun afternoon with the neighbours. So we fired up the ovens, baked lots of cake, hung up the bunting and knocked in the croquet!
The afternoon tea party was a 'taste' of what our street could plan for next year. We knew six of the thirty people who came, so in meeting many of our neighbours for the first time, it was encouraging to realise how many other people support and appreciate 'community' spirit.
Everyone bought cake, sausage rolls or drinks - so there was plenty to munch on through the afternoon and time to listen to people's stories and talents. There were artists, nano scientists, IT specialists, marine interior designers, homemakers and teachers, to name a few - and that was just the children's talents!
We'll definitely plan another get together for the next big lunch - and with so many people enjoying this year, it will be fab getting everyone to the party next year!
Kate Whyley