Close links between an inner-city church and Bolton Abbey, on the banks of the River Wharfe, prompted a special coach trip for families this summer.
44 members of the congregation of St Paul's Manningham and Revd Chris Chorlton spent a day at Bolton Abbey where they were welcomed by old friends from their church Mike and Mary Vineall and also welcomed by Rector of Bolton Priory, Revd Nicholas Mercer whose predecessor was Canon George Moffat.
“Canon George left his post at St Paul’s Manningham in 2007 after 13 years as Rector to take up a new post at Bolton Priory,” explained Revd Chris.
“This was the beginning of many happy years of support and friendship. It was lovely this year to take a whole coach to enjoy the beauty of Bolton Abbey.
“Congregation members included those from Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Jamaica as well as the UK.
Revd Chris said: “It was a wonderful day of Christian fellowship in such a stunning and spiritually important setting. It was all about encouraging friendship and sharing in the past, present and future.”