A homelessness charity in Mossley is celebrating its 25th anniversary this November with a carnival-style charity event.

The charity, Emmaus Mossley, which has helped people facing homelessness for more than two decades is planning its 'birthday carnival' event this November to mark the special occasion.

Since its inception in 1997 as the first Emmaus community in the North West, the charity has supported more than 500 people who have experienced homelessness and social exclusion.

It is currently supporting 26 formerly homeless people by providing them with a home, work, companionship and individual support.

Emmaus Mossley's Longlands Mill base is funded by their large secondhand superstore which sells donated and refurbished furniture, clothes, bric-a-brac and vintage items.

The event will take place on Saturday, November 12, at its Queen Street site with live music, a 75-member carnival band made up of drummers, dancers, brass and reed players, giant puppets, food and drink plus activities for children and the launch of its Christmas display.

Some special guests will also make an appearance, including Terry Waite CBA, President of Emmaus UK, and carnival experts Global Grooves based at The Vale in Mossley.

Gary Barton, who has been supported by Emmaus Mossley, said: “Emmaus has evolved a lot in the years I’ve been here, including all the work that was done during the lockdowns to improve our Secondhand Superstore.

"Our supporters have shared that journey with us over the years, helping to keep Emmaus going and a roof over our heads.

“The main thing I’m looking forward to at the 25th Birthday Carnival is seeing the many customers and supporters, along with our volunteers, who together are such a big part of the Emmaus family.

"Celebrating and sharing the day with them will be such a special occasion.”

Alison Hill, director of Emmaus Mossley, added: “We’re really excited to be hosting this special anniversary event, bringing together our friends, volunteers, supporters and members of the wider community.

"Our plans include a fun-filled day of celebration and charity shop treasure hunting, along with a few surprises, which we hope will be the biggest event in Emmaus Mossley’s 25-year history.”