I’ve lived in Stoke Newington for 27 years. The best thing about it is obviously the people, the generous, interesting, funny, creative, diverse, sometimes a bit mad people who live and work here. The second-best thing is the range of facilities at our doorstep: Clissold Park, of course; the leisure centre; the interesting shops, restaurants and cafes; and community projects like The Old Church.

The Old Church is an arts and performance space committed to inspiring arts and inspiring community, a mission in keeping with the history of the ancient building. My involvement with The Old Church started a couple of years ago when I began volunteering at events. Now I’m working there as the manager. My role is to help look after the amazing old building and to look after the bookings. The Old Church hosts events of all sorts – for all members of the local community.

In a typical week, we might have a daytime concert for babies and toddlers, perhaps
a classical concert of some sort, or some experimental contemporary music, or
music from of Stoke Newington’s diverse communities. On the second Saturday of each month we have an open art session – for all ages, all material is provided, and it is pay- what-you-can. Earlier this year, we had our first home-grown festival – Breathe – a celebration of air.