Since we began the Street Twinning project at the beginning of 2006 we've heard of some amazing connections between the three locations.

Luis Emilio visited Sheffield from Esteli in March this year to talk to groups about his youth radio project, hosted by the Sheffield Esteli Society. He visited Freedom Rd and had lunch with five residents (about the limit you can fit in one room!) telling us about Monte Sinai and showing us photos. He also attended our fundraising evening and led the crowd in singing "Nicaragua Nicaragita", see the Freedom Rd fundraising pages. Thanks to Terry Brown for the fantastic translation service.

We heard from Albert Park Primary School in Melbourne that Issy Grounds, an eight year old pupil has family living in Sheffield. She sent some art work to the Freedom Rd party to display and her grandparents Ann and Roy Coult and her cousins and aunt celebrated the twinning link by attending the Freedom Rd party, whilst Issy was at the Dundas Place party (or a few hours later!). They all had a wonderful time.

Cara, a Melbourne resident who was involved in the Dundas Place party organising, visited Sheffield and attended the Freedom Road Street Party. She helped hang up the bunting and talked to residents about the Port Phillip area of Melbourne and her experiences of organising a pool party at her apartment block.

We recieved this extraordinary email from Brian Hodgkinson as we were getting ready for the Freedom Rd party.

Dear Roanna

Just to say how much pleasure your photos of Freedom Road gave me. My association was with the Baptist Church and its Scout Group (240th Sheffield). I also attended Walkley School, both infants and Council (County School).

Whilst at School I was very friendly with Frank Parker who lived near the bottom end of Freedom Road. He introduced me to the cubs at the Baptist Church.

I left Walkley School in July 1950 and commenced work as an apprectice electrician with W. Burns, South Road. I left Sheffield in 1952 to join the Royal Navy. I left UK for Sydney, Australia in 1965 and subsequently transferred to Melbourne in 1973.

I keep in touch with Sheffield through my family who still live in its environs.

In my years in Australia, you have made many fine improvements to Freedom Road.

My wife and I lived in Port Phillip area Melbourne so Albert Park is a neighbouring suburb of ours. Unfortunately, we were not able to go to the Street Party today.

Best wishes to you and your team for future successful global street parties.

Sincerely

Brian Hodgkinson
formerly of
40 Grammar Street (no longer there)
WALKLEY