#VISBF2 : Doing good by drinking good

This. This is what it's all about.

The Wood Crafts area

The Independent Salford Beer Festival has always been ‘Not For Profit’. From the days of supporting one venue intimately tied in with my birth family history (my family all attended St Sebastian's Primary School - TLO & I were even married by its former parish priest!) to supporting another cause tied in due to family grief, this event has always sought to give something.

Beautiful Mosaics

This event has given - and continues to give - me so much. Days like today lift the soul. Make you remember that there is light and hope out there, if you only have a look.

“Start is the beginning of something special. An opportunity to be creative, to learn, to grow, and to live”

I couldn't have put it better myself.

Start Inspiring Minds was founded over 20 years ago. Its focus is upon the mental wellbeing of people in the community of Salford, lifting them, demonstrating that everyone has value, these values expressed by means of creating. Arts & Crafts. From Painting, Pottery, Mosaics, Photography, Music, Woodworking. It's all here. Within the beautiful Grade II listed Brunswick House, by the side of the A6. A mere 4/500 yards from our home at Hemsley House.

Ideas that make people feel good.

James & I went today. To meet Bernadette, the founder and CEO of START. A woman of the community who has given so much back TO the community. She's a truly lovely and inspirational woman who it has been my pleasure to know for the last 4 years.

This was James’ first visit. My thought being that it would be good for him to see what he helps to support.

I think he got more than he expected.

There is so much going on here, with so many rooms, each with its own distinct purpose. From Therapy rooms, the various arts rooms, a music studio, fully kitted, to a simple, relaxing break out room.

It's an inspirational space. Like Bernadette. Like the lovely Gerry Stone (without whom NONE of this - ISBF - would ever have happened) It inspires me. To keep going with this ridiculous beery roller coaster.

A Map of Salford - Created from A Collage of Images of Salford.

The best thing about today? The surprise on Bernadette face when I showed her that I'd just transferred £10,500 into their bank account.

They survive on grants. Bequests. Donations. They can't afford to employ professional fund raisers. They get by. And they make do with what they get. MORE than make do. As you can see.

This charity matters. To me. Mine. And the entire ISBF Family.

My thirsty friends. Look what you've done. And take a well deserved bow

You did good.

Be kind to one another. Back soon.

Jx