A quieter Jubilee celebration

James Gansler performing at Chadkirk Chapel. Songs are: Run for Home, by Lindisfarne. Go Your Own Way, by Fleetwood Mac. May You Never, by John Martyn.

While Romiley’s (fantastic) street party drew a massive crowd, the Friends of Chadkirk hosted a far more low-key affair, for those who wanted to celebrate... a little more quietly.

The chapel was opened from noon until four. We invited people down to a ‘picnic and garden party’ where people could bring their own food and drink and relax rather than party hard.

Somewhat surprisingly, the weather – forecast to be cloudy – turned out to be baking hot. Over the outside PA, we played a selection of hits from the last seventy years.

Given that most of Romiley was on Compstall Road partying, we drew a modest but steady crowd.

The highlight of the day was Lancashire guitarist and singer James Gansler, who had (a day or so before) offered to play a couple of sets – and he was, frankly, brilliant. His songs ranged from soft rock to blues, from Lancashire folk music to pop. We got a huge amount of positive feedback from people who came because they planned to or simply heard James playing as they were passing and decided to stop in for a new and some cake.

As people came and went, the tables outside the chapel remained full and families were picnicking in the walled garden.

James performed two sets and, towards the end, the sun was so hot that we took turns holding an umbrella over him – when we set up first thing, it was overcast so we didn’t think to set up a gazebo for him!

In its own quiet way, it was a magical day. The weather, the music, the setting. Not everyone wants to party hard and the low-key jubilee garden party at Chadkirk was something very special in its own own.

Our thanks to everyone who came, we hope you enjoyed the day.