Big lunch is right up your street

Residents across Manchester are being asked to stop what they are doing and sit down for lunch with their neighbours as part of a campaign supported by Manchester City Council.

Street parties are taking place across the city on Sunday, July 19, as part of the national Big Lunch campaign, funded by Cornwall's Eden Project.

As well as enjoying barbecues and outdoor parties, residents who take part in the events will also help make their neighbourhoods look better by planting communal gardens and picking litter from the street.

The City Council is also supporting groups who are holding events, as part of the year-long Proud Of Manchester campaign, which encourages residents to celebrate life in Manchester and get to know their neighbours.

Earlier in the summer, the City Council received a record 159 applications from residents who wanted to hold events across the city as part of Neighbours Day, and it is hoped this success can be repeated during the Big Lunch.

Councillor Paul Andrews, Manchester City Council's Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services, said: "Neighbours Day was a real success across Manchester, with thousands of people getting together and organising events to make life better for everyone in the community.

"Residents really showed that community spirit is alive and well in Manchester, and I hope they can do it again with the Big Lunch. These events can lead to new friendships and a better understanding of the people we live close to, but have not had the chance to meet."

For more information on how to organise a Big Lunch contact: campaigns.team@manchester.gov.uk

All Big Lunch events should also be registered nationally by contacting: info@thebiglunch.com