Thousands enjoy church feeding frenzy in Hull

Last weekend Neighbourhood Network member Believe in Hull organsied a fish supper for 5000 local people. Read their fantastic story below:

The fish came thick and fast as the fryers cooked an average of 160 portions every 15 minutes for the church partnership, Believe in Hull, to re-create the famous biblical story of feeding the 5,000, on what was a hot summer Saturday.

Supported by the Bible Society, North Atlantic Fishing Company and Cooplands, it was the biggest community event to be staged by Believe in Hull, as part of its Communities of Culture initiative to tie in with City of Culture.

For the thousands of people who tucked in to a fish sandwich during the day, they were also entertained by street drama from Hull-based Credo and Roughshod, part of the Riding Lights Theatre in York, songs from the Brownies, drumming and a puppet show. They could also choose a handmade knitted fish, of which a stunning 5,700 were made by volunteers from Hull, East Yorkshire and across the country. A special artwork using people’s thumbnails was also created for display in a church in Hull.

The Bishop of Hull, the Rt Rev Alison White, who also chairs Believe in Hull, said: “It was just a fantastic day. We wanted to achieve a special event for the people of Hull – give a gift, extend hospitality and welcome, and there was no shortage of takers. It was a superb location at Queen’s Gardens too. I can’t thank enough those people from around the country who knitted such cute fish for us – we smashed our target and everything came together.”

Organiser Cathy Westby said: “We want to pay tribute to the volunteers who came together from churches across Hull and East Yorkshire to make it happen. The
whole idea of the Believe in Hull partnership is to support and promote the great work of the church in our communities, from cafes and coffee mornings to the craft activities and concerts.”
As the Feeding 5,000 event rep

resented an everyday miracle, Believe in Hull is asking the public for their stories of miracles which have helped them in life – whether related to family, friends or working life. It is for a new website. Send stories with contact details to news.believeinhull@gmail.com.