IN the Summer of ’75 - it sounds like the beginning of a song but it is actually the date of the first appearance of a magnificent piece of outdoor art unveiled to residents in Oldham.
The art was pictured on the walls of the Condor iron works in Library Lane, Westwood.
Sadly as much as it brought joy to people in the area, the mural and the iron works were swept aside, along with the Library Lane houses, for the building of the new internal bypass.
The mural had three scenes, a condor flying over the Andes, men working in the iron works and a stand full of scarf-waving fans behind the goal at Oldham Athletic’s ground.
The local community were delighted that Rochdale artist, Walter Kershaw, had brightened up the imposing grey walls of the works and set about tidying-up the area between their houses and the mural.
They laid on an open-air party to celebrate and invited the Latics striker Alan Groves to launch the event kicking a ball between the posts of the stand.
Memories were made and the event was a great day those who were there.
The outdoor celebrations were organised by four women.
One of the four housewives who organised the party, Mrs Brenda Seville, said: "We catered for about 75 people, those from surrounding streets were also welcome.
"Everyone has been really good, lending a hand or supplying food or drink. "This street has a real community spirit, and it will be a shame when the houses are knocked down. I wish we could all move out into the same street so we would be together again."
Everyone dressed in the latest fashion, even the children who are pictured above in their fabulous trousers and long white socks.
Do you remember dancing and playing games at the party?
Perhaps you remember moving away from this welcoming community to another part of town when the area was eventually cleared?
To find out more about Westwood’s historic buildings and its amazing street art join on a guided tour on Tuesday, September 14 at 2pm.
To book your place ring 0161 770 4654 or email archives@oldham.gov.uk for details.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here