Cottonmill Gathering expected to attract more than 800 people

A previous community day in Sopwell.

Sopwell Residents Association volunteers are organising the biggest-ever Sopwell community festival – the ‘Cottonmill Gathering’ taking place this Sunday, July 14.

The event, which runs from 12noon to 4pm, is expected to attract over 800 people.

Elaine Rainsford, who leads the Sopwell Residents Association events group, which organises the festival, said: “Our festival can only happen because we now have the Cottonmill Community and Cycling Centre in the heart of Sopwell.

“This award-winning centre has become a fantastic community resource that caters for people of all ages and backgrounds and is an essential element to help us run the festival. It is fantastic to see how local communities can step up to help each other.”

There will be a music stage all afternoon, many craft and community stalls, including plants from Grow Community- Sopwell.

Children can enjoy inflatables, toddlers’ play, a story tent, face-painting, and henna hand painting. The St Albans Cycle Hub, which operates the community centre will also be organising cycle activities for youngsters on the day. There is a welly-wanging competition for all ages, a raffle with prizes donated by local companies, and plenty of food available.

The Cottonmill Gathering takes place at the Cottonmill Community and Cycling Centre, off Old Oak, Cottonmill Lane, AL1 2EF.



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