Dad's mission to spread community spirit

Carl Priestley, a recovery technician at John Macadam and Son in Colne, has opened a community centre with his partner Monny Singh, Liam Carney and Mike Waite from Burnley Borough Council on the Kibble Bank housing estate.

He is offering youngsters and the elderly a place to visit to take part in productive activities and socialise with others.

“The idea originated when we moved to the estate and realised there wasn’t much for the children to do,” said Carl.

“Monny and I wanted to keep our four children off the streets and give them and other children in the area something productive to do in the evening.

“At the moment, the youth club is only held one night a week, and the coffee afternoon is every Tuesday 12-3pm. However, we have plans in place to extend this especially as the summer months are approaching.”

A further five local volunteers work with Carl and Monny on the project with plans to expand and offer more for the community including a parent and toddler group.

Burnley Leisure’s Getin2 sport programme has provided funding for the project, there’s plenty to be done and it’s an exciting time for the Kibble Bank housing estate.

Sarah Macadam, Human Resources Manager at John Macadam and Son, said: “We’re really proud of Carl and the work he is doing with the community.

“He’s really hard working in his role with us at Macadams and it’s clear to see that he’s passionate about making a difference.”