Introducing a new writer -Patrick Bell
Saddleworth Life has a new writer fresh from university and raring to go. Saddleworth Life aims to bring positivity to the area and interesting snippets of good news and encouraging health and well being. To date it’s been written by a host of over 30’s and we’re very very pleased to introduce a youthful voice. I sat with Patrick on a wall in Uppermill Park. We chatted over a take-away coffee. Here’s what he had to say…
Why have you decided to write for Saddleworth Life?
There are a lot of positive people, groups and stories entwined with the fabric of our beautiful community, all of which deserve recognition. Through writing for Saddleworth Life, I hope to weave these sometimes-hidden things into something the wider community can read and feel proud of; giving them the recognition they deserve.
How has the lockdown affected your plans for this year?
Like everyone, all my plans have seemingly been frozen. An MA in Contemporary Art at Salford University has been deferred and plans to move back into the city have been placed on hold. However, if none of this would have happened, I might never have stumbled upon this brilliant creative opportunity. Although the route often changes, life continues to flow…
How long have you lived in Saddleworth?
I’ve lived here for all but the first ten months of my life – having been born in Moorside. Still a “Comer-inner” to some, I’m sure, but Saddleworth has always been my home.
What do you love about Saddleworth?
To name a few things: The quarry stone streets and trees in summer sunshine, the numerous hills and webbing bridleways, the numerous different characters and the welcoming atmosphere felt in every village. But above all else, I love the uniqueness, the fact I’ve never known anywhere else like Saddleworth before. Amid shattered rock, I believe they call that a gem.
Who inspires you?
Most people I encounter in my life inspire me in some small way. One person that stands out is Virginia Woolf because when I read her work, I feel she understands more of how I experience living than I do myself. However, talking more locally, I’d say my biggest inspiration is my Mum and Dad because they’ve always supported me without fault in everything I choose to do, which is surely the best foundation on which to stand if you want to turn inspiration from wonder to action.
Do you have a mantra or motto for life?
I generally try to avoid mantra’s or motto’s, preferring instead to let things just be. There’s one thing that’s stuck over the years though, and that’s saying ‘BOME’ whenever I’m acutely aware of a profound moment of happiness, appreciation, or beauty. I’m not sure what it means and it’s not an original idea of mine, but I often find myself murmuring or just thinking it while I’m in Saddleworth, usually while observing the landscape. It truly is a privilege to live here and we’re all extremely fortunate; something I never forget and hope to express through all future writing for this auspicious publication.
Author: Jude Gidney - Editor
If you would like to share an interesting story, achievement, photo or something you just want to happily shout about please send it in an email to hello@saddleworthlife.com We'd ❤ to hear from you!!
