St John, Irlam

The Bishop of Manchester continued his combined visit to the parishes of Irlam and Cadishead on Tuesday 29th January, 2008 - reflecting the growing relationship between the two parishes as they move towards forming a group ministry.
The Bishop visited Prince's Park Garden Centre for lunch with Tom Broad, co-ordinator of the project. From small beginnings the scheme, which is aimed at helping adults with learning disabilities into work, has grown steadily over the years and now helps 40-50 adults a year.
Next stop was Saint Mary's C of E Primary School in Cadishead where Bishop Nigel was shown round by headteacher, Gill Evans. The Bishop spent time with year 3 pupils; joining in their collective worship and answering questions, including: "What is your favourite prayer?" and "how many Bibles do you have?" The bishop also explained why he carried what looks like a shepherd's crook.
Leaving school, the bishop paid a visit to the staff of Carphone Warehouse Networks (formerly OPAL telecoms) a local company originally founded by businessman, Graham Chisnall in the 1990's.
The bishop was given a tour  of the existing HQ and then of the new offices that the company are soon to be moving to (also in Irlam).
Priest-in-charge of St Mary's Cadishead, Jonathan Tallon said: 'It was good to be able to strengthen links with such a significant local employer; especially one which works so hard to retain its local connection.'
The bishop's final visit was to Barton Moss Secure Care Unit - a high security facility for boys aged 12-16.
Bishop Nigel was impressed by the dedication of the staff  he met -

Photos from this Run the race Bishop's pilgrimage

many of whom have worked at Barton Moss for many years.
Priest-in-charge, David Wheeler said,  ''It was good to be able to strengthen our links with Barton Moss and I hope that we can build on those links to support those in the Unit's care, and the unit staff. Ironically, while adult prisons must provide on-site chaplaincy care,  secure facilities for young people, though required to provide appropriate religious and pastoral care, are not required to have on-site clergy involvement."
The bishop's visit ended with the bishop, clergy and church members meeting together to pray at St John's before saying their farewells.

Reflecting on the bishop's visit, priest-in-charge of St John's Irlam, David Wheeler said, "the visit has strengthened links all round - between our parishes, and with our communities and institutions. Already Barton Moss has begun to invite us in regularly, Carphone Warehouse has invited us and the bishop to their grand opening and Prince's Park will be contributing a regular page in our parish magazine.
"Run the Race has kick-started new relationships that we hope and believe will grow in the future."